Michael Jordan Joins NBC Sports as Special Contributor for NBA Coverage

The NBA legend Michael Jordan makes a surprise return to the network that helped define his prime, joining NBC as it reclaims broadcast rights starting October 2025.

In a stunning announcement that sent shockwaves through the sports world, NBC revealed on Monday that basketball icon Michael Jordan will be joining the network as a special contributor for its upcoming NBA coverage.

The announcement came during NBCUniversal’s 2025 upfront presentation in New York. The moment was punctuated by composer John Tesh performing the iconic “Roundball Rock” theme live on stage—an anthem long associated with NBC’s storied NBA broadcasts of the 1990s. Jordan, who defined that era with six championship titles for the Chicago Bulls, appeared in a pre-recorded video message confirming his return to NBC.

“I am so excited to see the NBA back on NBC,” Jordan said in the message. “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, often considered the greatest basketball player of all time, retired over two decades ago but continues to shape the world of sports as a minority owner of the Charlotte Hornets and as the owner of NASCAR’s 23XI Racing team. His new role at NBC marks his first regular foray into NBA media coverage.

NBC Sports president Rick Cordella welcomed the move, stating, “Michael’s legacy both on and off the court speaks for itself. We’re incredibly proud to have him join our coverage.”

Jordan’s hiring aligns with a growing trend in sports broadcasting, where networks are enlisting all-time greats to add gravitas to their analyst teams. Fox brought in NFL legend Tom Brady for its football coverage, and TNT Sports added NHL superstar Wayne Gretzky to its hockey lineup.

NBC’s NBA coverage is slated to launch in October 2025 with Jordan contributing insights, analysis, and personal reflections on the game he helped globalize.