He’s back. Michael Jordan will once again grace NBA broadcasts next season as the league returns to NBC. The Hall of Famer will serve as a “special contributor,” NBC announced Monday.
The six-time NBA champion and five-time MVP will headline NBC’s first NBA broadcasts since 2002.
“I am so excited to see the NBA back on NBC,” Jordan said in a statement. “The NBA on NBC was a meaningful part of my career, and I’m excited about being a special contributor to the project. I’m looking forward to seeing you all when the NBA on NBC launches this October.”
NBC officials did not specify what Jordan’s role would entail. The network has already named Carmelo Anthony as a studio analyst, with former NBA stars Jamal Crawford and Reggie Miller providing color commentary.
“Michael’s legacy both on and off the court speaks for itself,” said NBC Sports President Rick Cordella. “We’re incredibly proud to have him join our coverage.”
The announcement made shockwaves across the sports media landscape. After retiring as one of the NBA’s all-time greatest players, Jordan embarked on a business career that made him a billionaire.
His “Jordan” brand of shoes became a powerhouse as he became an NBA owner when he purchased the Charlotte Hornets.
He sold the team in 2023, instead focusing on his NASCAR team, 23XI Racing.
NBC reached an 11-year deal to broadcast NBA and WNBA games last summer. The network became synonymous with the NBA through national broadcasts from 1990 to 2002 before ABC, ESPN and TNT took over.
Next season’s broadcast will feature NBC’s memorable “Roundball Rock” musical theme and narration from the now-deceased Jim Fagan. The network announced that it would integrate an AI-generated version of Fagan’s voice into coverage and promotion.
• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.
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