Michael Jordan returns to the NBA: The former basketball star takes on a new role

Basketball icon Michael Jordan is returning to the NBA—this time in a new role off the court. The six-time NBA champion and Hall of Famer announced on Monday that he will serve as a special contributor to NBC Sports’ NBA coverage beginning with the 2025–26 season.

The announcement was made during a high-profile event at Radio City Music Hall in New York, where Jordan expressed his enthusiasm: “I’m very excited. The NBA on NBC was a significant part of my career, and I’m thrilled to be a special contributor to the project.”

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A new chapter in a legendary career

Jordan's return comes nearly two years after he sold his majority stake in the Charlotte Hornets, stepping away from his executive role in the NBA. Now, at 62, he will provide insights and commentary for NBC Sports’ televised NBA games, marking his first consistent on-air role since his playing days. Although Jordan has offered occasional analysis in the past, this new collaboration represents a deeper involvement with league media coverage.

Rick Cordella, President of NBC Sports, praised the addition: “Michael’s legacy on and off the court speaks for itself. We are incredibly proud to have him join our broadcast team.” Jordan’s presence coincides with NBCUniversal’s return as an NBA broadcast partner under a new 11-year media rights deal announced in 2024.

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A lasting legacy beyond the court

Widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time, Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to six NBA championships during the 1990s. His time as the face of the league overlapped with NBC’s first era broadcasting NBA games from 1990 to 2002—a period that helped shape the modern NBA media landscape.

Outside basketball, Jordan has built a powerful legacy as a businessman, philanthropist, and cultural icon. He co-founded NASCAR’s 23XI Racing team, played a key role in the Emmy-winning Netflix documentary The Last Dance, and launched the Jordan Brand under Nike. His charitable work includes support for youth programs, medical clinics in underserved communities, and over three decades of work with Make-A-Wish Foundation, where he serves as Chief Wish Ambassador.