When Michael Jordan speaks, the basketball world listens. Now, after years of maintaining a low profile, especially since selling his majority stake in the Charlotte Hornets, Jordan is returning, not to ownership, not to coaching, but to the broadcast booth.
NBC made waves last month by announcing that Jordan will serve as a contributor when the network reclaims NBA broadcast rights for the 2025–26 season. While the move marks a historic full-circle moment, as Jordan won all six of his titles while NBC aired NBA games, it’s what comes next that has fans buzzing.
Initial rumors swirled that Jordan’s contract could be worth up to $40 million annually. But that figure has since been shot down according to Front Office Sports’ Ryan Glasspiegel, who clarified that the real number is “significantly lower,” though still undisclosed. That mystery only adds to the intrigue.
One thing is certain: Michael Jordan wouldn’t take a role like this without significant interest, whether financial or legacy-driven.
“Michael’s legacy both on and off the court speaks for itself,” NBC Sports president Rick Cordella said. “We’re incredibly proud to have him join our coverage.”
That’s the golden question. Officially, Jordan has been signed as a “contributor,” but NBC has been tight-lipped about what that actually entails. Will he be a pregame presence? A postgame analyst? A halftime critic? According to Puck’s John Ourand, Jordan’s appearances are expected to be pre-taped, but even that hasn’t been confirmed.
And if you’re expecting a watered-down version of MJ, think again. ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith offered a word of warning, or maybe a teaser.
“Let me tell you something about Michael Jordan: He’s going to be brutally honest, I can assure you of that,” Smith said on Patrick Bet-David’s podcast. “He ain’t trying to hurt nobody’s feelings. He ain’t trying to be insulting, but he’s going to tell you what’s going on.”
Michael Jordan NBC NBA broadcast contributor announcement 2025 season
Unknown Date; Orlando, FL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Chicago Bulls guard (23) Michael Jordan in action against the Orlando Magic at the Orlando Arena. Mandatory Credit: Photo By Imagn Images (c) Copyright Imagn Images
© RVR Photos-Imagn Images
Jordan stepping into the media limelight marks a stark contrast to his quiet final years as the Hornets’ owner. His tenure in Charlotte ended in 2023 with mixed results, multiple rebuilds, missed playoffs, and a handful of what-ifs. But for Hornets fans, this broadcasting turn is more than nostalgia.
It’s a new way to hear from a figure who rarely addressed the fanbase during his ownership, a chance to better understand his basketball mind without PR filters or press releases. Whether or not Jordan directly references his time in Charlotte, his commentary could offer insights into the philosophies that shaped the Hornets under his leadership.
Michael Jordan’s return to NBC might not involve game-winning jumpers or championship parades, but it will bring the game’s most iconic competitor back into the living rooms of fans everywhere. Hornets faithful, who lived through the highs and lows of his ownership now have the chance to see a different side of His Airness. And if Stephen A. is right, it’ll be must-see TV.