In a move that has captivated the sports world, basketball legend Michael Jordan is returning to the NBA spotlight—not on the court, but behind the microphone. NBC Sports announced that Jordan will join its NBA coverage as a special contributor starting with the 2025–26 season, marking his first foray into basketball broadcasting since retiring in 2003.
This development coincides with NBC’s reacquisition of NBA broadcasting rights, a partnership that previously spanned from 1990 to 2002—a period that encompassed Jordan’s six championship victories with the Chicago Bulls. The network’s return is part of an 11-year deal commencing in October 2025, which also includes streaming games on Peacock.
Jordan’s role, described as “nebulous,” will initially involve appearing in pre-recorded segments during pregame and halftime shows. While the exact nature of his contributions remains to be seen, NBC has expressed enthusiasm about the potential for his involvement to evolve over time.
The announcement was made during NBCUniversal’s Upfront presentation, where Jordan expressed his excitement: “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.”
Joining Jordan on NBC’s broadcast team are notable figures such as Mike Tirico and Noah Eagle as play-by-play commentators, with Jamal Crawford and Reggie Miller serving as game analysts. Carmelo Anthony will contribute as a studio analyst, adding depth to the network’s coverage.
NBC is also reviving elements of its classic NBA coverage, including the iconic “Roundball Rock” theme by John Tesh and utilizing an AI-generated voice of former announcer Jim Fagan for certain segments.
Jordan’s return to NBC not only brings a sense of nostalgia but also signifies a new chapter in his illustrious career. Having sold his majority stake in the Charlotte Hornets in 2023 and focusing on ventures like his 23XI Racing team, this move marks his re-engagement with the basketball community in a fresh capacity.
As the NBA prepares to return to NBC, fans eagerly anticipate the insights and perspectives that Jordan will bring to the broadcast, blending his unparalleled experience with the evolving landscape of the sport.
Jordan’s return to NBC not only evokes deep nostalgia for fans who remember the golden era of “NBA on NBC,” but it also positions him uniquely in today’s media landscape. As a global icon who redefined the sport, his presence lends gravitas and credibility to the network’s new NBA coverage. Whether he becomes a recurring analyst or remains a special contributor, Jordan’s perspective is unmatched.
Fans will finally get to hear his thoughts on the modern NBA, from the league’s brightest stars to how today’s game compares to his legendary era. More than just a marketing coup for NBC, Jordan’s involvement is a symbolic homecoming—bringing the most recognizable figure in basketball history back to the platform that helped define his prime years. With this move, NBC is signaling its intent to make its NBA coverage not just competitive, but unforgettable.
