Michael Jordan Joins NBC Sports as Special Contributor for NBA Coverage Launching This Fall

In a major announcement made on Monday, six-time NBA champion Michael Jordan will join NBC Sports as a special contributor starting this fall.

“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.”

The news was shared during NBCUniversal’s Upfront presentation in New York City, confirming Jordan’s collaboration as the network resumes coverage of the NBA after more than two decades.

NBC Sports Welcomes a Basketball Legend

NBC Sports President Rick Cordella expressed pride over Jordan’s addition to the team. “Michael’s legacy both on and off the court speaks for itself,” Cordella said.

Jordan, often regarded as the greatest NBA player in history, earned six NBA titles with the Chicago Bulls and was named NBA Finals MVP six times.

Over a 15-year career, he became a 14-time All-Star and a 10-time scoring champion. Jordan also won Olympic gold with Team USA in both 1984 and 1992.

His vast accomplishments and enduring legacy are expected to bring a unique depth to NBC’s broadcast team.

NBC’s New Broadcast Deal with the NBA

NBCUniversal and the NBA finalized an 11-year agreement to air both NBA and WNBA games beginning with the 2025–26 season.

As part of the deal, Peacock will stream exclusive Monday night national games. NBC and Peacock will also cover regional doubleheaders on Tuesday nights.

Additionally, NBC Sports plans to launch “Sunday Night Basketball” next year, offering expanded coverage to fans.

Alongside Jordan, other NBA legends such as Jamal Crawford and Reggie Miller will serve as game analysts, while Carmelo Anthony joins as a studio analyst.

Bringing Back Familiar Voices and Music

NBC Sports also announced it would use Artificial Intelligence to recreate the voice of Jim Fagan, who served as the iconic narrator for the network from 1990 to 2002.

Fagan’s voice will feature in “select title sequences, show opens, and promos,” adding what Cordella described as a “deep sense of nostalgia” for longtime viewers.

Moreover, NBC will revive “Roundball Rock” by John Tesh, the iconic theme song that defined NBA coverage during the 1990s, further deepening the emotional connection for fans returning to the network.

Jordan’s Career and Post-NBA Ventures

Though NBC has not specified Jordan’s exact role, he is expected to contribute significantly through insight and analysis.

Jordan’s storied career includes 14 All-Star selections, five MVP awards, and 11 All-NBA selections. After retiring, he served in an executive role with the Washington Wizards and later acquired a minority stake in the Charlotte Hornets.

He became the managing member of basketball operations and eventually gained majority control of the team. In 2023, he sold the franchise to Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall but retained a minority stake.

Outside of basketball, Jordan is co-owner of NASCAR team 23XI Racing with Cup Series driver Denny Hamlin, showcasing his wide-ranging sports involvement and leadership.

A Highly Anticipated Role

While the frequency and format of Jordan’s appearances are still undisclosed, his presence is expected to elevate the broadcast experience.

Given his unparalleled knowledge of the game and executive experience, Jordan is poised to offer fans a fresh and insightful perspective.

No matter the details of his role, Jordan’s participation adds considerable prestige to NBC’s NBA coverage. Fans can look forward to commentary from one of the sport’s all-time greats when the NBA returns to NBC this October.

Vince Carter Also Joins NBC Team

In addition to Jordan, Hall of Famer Vince Carter will be part of the studio team this fall. Carter is set to work frequently alongside Carmelo Anthony through the NBA playoffs, NBC announced.

The return of NBA on NBC now boasts a roster filled with legendary players, promising a rich and dynamic viewing experience for basketball fans around the world.