Basketball enthusiasts are poised for a nostalgic rush as Michael Jordan, the 62-year-old NBA icon, steps back into the spotlight with NBC's NBA coverage, beginning this October. After a hiatus from the public eye, Jordan's return to a network that broadcasted some of his most memorable gameplay moments is generating significant buzz.
"The NBA on NBC was a meaningful part of my career, and I'm excited about being a special contributor to the project," Jordan remarked, expressing his enthusiasm for the upcoming collaboration with the network. His illustrious career included 15 seasons, 14 All-Star appearances, and five MVP awards, yet he has seldom shown interest in traditional media roles. This partnership is a departure for Jordan, who has preferred maintaining a private life with his wife Yvette Prieto and focusing on his business ventures since selling his majority stake in the Charlotte Hornets in 2023.
The announcement coincides with NBC's strategic move to re-enter the world of NBA broadcasting. An 11-year media rights deal with the NBA, set to officially start with the 2025–26 season, has been secured, but NBC is initiating its NBA programming earlier this fall to rekindle its association with basketball coverage. The network's social media accounts are already celebrating Jordan's involvement, touting him as a "legendary addition" to their team.
Expected to concentrate on special segments, Jordan's role will likely enhance NBC's revamped basketball coverage, which now includes a stellar lineup of commentators and analysts. Veteran broadcaster Mike Tirico and rising talent Noah Eagle will handle play-by-play responsibilities. The analyst team will feature former NBA players Jamal Crawford and Reggie Miller, with Carmelo Anthony slated to offer his insights as an in-studio analyst.
Moreover, NBC's streaming platform Peacock is expanding its offerings, including exclusive livestreams of Monday night games and presenting national coverage of regional doubleheaders on Tuesday nights. With "Sunday Night Basketball" set to debut in 2026, the network is poised to deliver comprehensive coverage throughout the week.
The impact of Jordan's return extends beyond the operational aspects of NBC's coverage. For many fans, his presence evokes memories of the NBA on NBC's heyday, and the network anticipates an uptick in viewership as a result. His decision reflects NBC's broader strategy to blend nostalgia with fresh content, aiming to captivate both long-time fans and a new generation of basketball enthusiasts.
In conclusion, Michael Jordan's foray into media as a special contributor is a notable pivot for the sports icon and a strategic move for NBC as it reclaims its position as a key player in basketball broadcasting. With Jordan's influence and the network's comprehensive coverage plan, NBC is setting the stage for a new era in NBA media.
