Michael Jordan Joins NBC as Special Contributor for NBA Coverage

NBC Sports has announced that basketball legend Michael Jordan will join their NBA coverage as a special contributor beginning with the 2025-2026 season. This marks a significant return for both Jordan and NBC, as the network famously broadcast the NBA during Jordan’s peak years from 1990 to 2002. The announcement has generated considerable excitement among basketball fans eager to hear Jordan’s insights on the modern game.

Longtime sports broadcaster Kevin Harlan has weighed in on what viewers can expect from Jordan in his new role. Harlan, known for his passionate and insightful commentary, believes that Jordan’s greatest value will lie in sharing his personal experiences and unique perspectives on the game.

Harlan expressed his thoughts during a recent appearance on OutKick’s "Don’t @ Me with Dan Dakich." He emphasized that fans are not necessarily looking for statistical recaps or generic analysis. Instead, they crave an inside look at the mindset and preparation of one of the greatest players of all time.

"I think when you talk about perhaps the greatest player who has ever played our game, it’s always the inside stuff, which I think is most captivating," Harlan stated. He suggested that Jordan could captivate audiences by sharing anecdotes about his legendary battles with rivals like Reggie Miller, or by detailing his meticulous preparation for crucial Game 7s and challenging playoff series.

Harlan believes that the key is for Jordan to "take people behind the curtain" and reveal aspects of the game that are not readily available to the public. While statistics and game highlights are easily accessible, Jordan’s unique perspective and firsthand experiences offer a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a champion.

To illustrate his point, Harlan cited an interview he conducted with the late Kobe Bryant. He praised Bryant’s ability to articulate the nuances of the game, providing detailed insights into footwork, positioning, reads, and schemes. Harlan hopes that Jordan will offer a similar level of depth and understanding.

"To hear Kobe talk in detail about footwork, positioning, reads, schemes, all of it, preparation, day of preparation, after-game routine, like that’s the kind of stuff I want to hear Jordan talk about," Harlan explained.

Harlan emphasized that Jordan’s contributions should go beyond superficial observations or nostalgic reminiscing. He urged Jordan to focus on specific aspects of the game, offering concrete examples and actionable insights.

"You don’t have to be there dishing off 18 different things, pick one thing, pick two things, take people behind the scenes and back of the curtain and unveil what it’s like to be in that position for that coach for that team," Harlan advised. He discouraged Jordan from simply saying "Well in my day…" and instead encouraged him to provide concrete examples, such as "one way to prepare against a great defender is dot dot dot."

The return of the NBA to NBC is a significant event in itself. After a 23-year absence, the network will once again broadcast NBA games as part of an 11-year contract that begins this October. The addition of Michael Jordan as a special contributor further elevates the network’s coverage and adds a layer of prestige and excitement.

Jordan himself expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership in a video message. "I am so excited to see the NBA back on NBC," Jordan said. "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."

While Jordan has largely remained out of the public eye since his retirement, his influence on the game remains undeniable. His documentary, "The Last Dance," which aired on ESPN in 2020, provided a captivating look at his career and further solidified his status as a global icon.

The anticipation surrounding Jordan’s role on NBC is high. Fans are eager to hear his perspective on the modern NBA, his thoughts on the league’s current stars, and his insights into the strategies and techniques that define the game.

Harlan’s comments provide a valuable framework for understanding what viewers can expect from Jordan’s contributions. By focusing on personal experiences, behind-the-scenes details, and concrete examples, Jordan has the opportunity to provide a truly unique and insightful perspective on the game. His presence on NBC is sure to attract a wide audience and further enhance the network’s NBA coverage. His experience and insight will be welcome to old fans that remember the dominance that Jordan displayed on the court. New fans will also be welcomed as they will be able to see how the game has evolved and changed.

The addition of Jordan is not just a win for NBC, but also a win for basketball fans around the world. His presence will undoubtedly elevate the conversation surrounding the game and provide viewers with a deeper understanding of what it takes to achieve greatness. The combination of his storied career and the broadcasting acumen of Kevin Harlan will provide the fans with great content.