NEW YORK, N.Y. — There have been plenty of former NBA greats who’ve transitioned into television —names like Shaquille O’Neal, Magic Johnson and Dwyane Wade come to mind — but none carry the same mystique or legacy as the man widely considered the GOAT, Michael Jordan.
As NBC prepares to return to NBA broadcasting next season after a perfectly symbolic 23-year hiatus, the network made headlines on Monday with the announcement that the Hall of Famer will join its coverage as a special contributor.
“Michael’s legacy both on and off the court speaks for itself. We’re incredibly proud to have him join our coverage,” NBC Sports President Rick Cordella said.
“I am so excited to see the NBA back on NBC. 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,” Jordan himself said in a video message during a presentation by the network at Radio City.
Specifics behind Jordan’s exact role remain unclear, but it does not appear to be a full-time commitment. Fans can likely expect to see His Airness making occasional appearances alongside NBC’s studio analysts and during special events.
The financial details of the agreement have also not been disclosed, but given Jordan’s track record with highly lucrative business ventures, it’s likely he’ll be earning a significant payday — adding to his estimated $4.15 billion net worth.
The announcement is all the more surprising given Jordan’s long-standing reputation for maintaining a private, media-averse public image. However, that perception may have started to shift following the massive success of the 2020 docuseries The Last Dance, which offered a rare, in-depth look at the Bulls’ legendary 1997–98 season.
NBC will aim to reestablish itself as a premier destination for basketball coverage over the next decade and beyond, following an 11-year media rights deal brokered between NBCUniversal and the NBA last July.
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