What's happened
Michael Jordan will serve as a special contributor for NBC's NBA coverage, marking the network's return to the league after 23 years. The announcement was made during NBC's upfront presentation, with Jordan expressing excitement for the upcoming season starting in October 2025.
What's behind the headline?
Jordan's Impact on NBA Broadcasting
- Cultural Significance: Michael Jordan's involvement with NBC is a significant cultural moment, as he is synonymous with the NBA's rise in popularity during the 1990s. His presence is expected to attract both old fans and new viewers.
- Media Strategy: NBC's strategy to include Jordan as a special contributor aims to leverage his legacy to enhance viewer engagement. His taped segments during pregame and halftime shows will likely provide unique insights, drawing on his extensive experience.
- Future Implications: This partnership could set a precedent for how former athletes transition into media roles, potentially influencing other networks to follow suit. Jordan's success in this role may lead to more athletes taking on similar positions in sports broadcasting.
- Viewer Expectations: Fans will anticipate not just analysis but also personal anecdotes from Jordan, especially given his pivotal role in NBA history. This could redefine how sports commentary is delivered, blending analysis with storytelling.
What the papers say
According to the New York Post, Jordan expressed his excitement about the NBA returning to NBC, stating, "I am so excited to see the NBA back on NBC... I’m looking forward to seeing you all when the NBA on NBC launches this October." The Independent highlighted that this marks Jordan's first network role, emphasizing his historical connection with NBC during his championship years. AP News noted that NBC's new media rights agreement will also feature other notable analysts, including Carmelo Anthony, indicating a robust lineup for the upcoming season. This collaboration reflects NBC's commitment to revitalizing its sports coverage and engaging a diverse audience.
How we got here
NBC announced its return to NBA broadcasting after a 23-year hiatus, having previously held rights from 1990 to 2002. The network's new 11-year agreement with the NBA and WNBA begins in October 2025, coinciding with Jordan's new role.
Go deeper
- What will Jordan's role entail?
- How will NBC's coverage differ from previous years?
- What other analysts will join Jordan on NBC?
Common question
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