On NBA Tip-Off Night, Michael Jordan surprised fans with a brief NBC appearance, promising to “pay it forward” and give back to the game.
On an NBA tip-off night that had everything from nostalgia to overtime chaos, the NBA returned in full force. The Oklahoma City Thunder edged out Kevin Durant and the Houston Rockets in a gritty overtime finish, while Steph Curry’s Golden State Warriors handled business against a LeBron-less Los Angeles Lakers.
But beyond the box scores, one sound stole the night: the triumphant return of NBA on NBC. Yes, that means John Tesh’s “Roundball Rock” is officially back, echoing through living rooms like a time capsule from the '90s. Cue the goosebumps.
And just when it felt like the league couldn’t lean any further into its golden era, we also saw the return of "His Airness," Michael Jordan. No, the six-time champion didn’t lace up the red-and-blacks, but he did sit down with Mike Tirico for NBC’s new segment, "MJ: Insights to Excellence."
In an era where nearly every former athlete has built a media career through commentary, analysis, or a podcast empire, Jordan has been the rare exception, staying out of the camera’s gaze. Let’s be honest, it's not like he needs the paycheck — did you see his home? And that was just the living room! But as The Last Dance proved, the world is still fascinated by the mind behind the myth.
The debut segment felt like more of a teaser than a tell-all or even insights into the game. Jordan revealed he hasn’t “touched a basketball in years,” yet admitted he feels he owes something to the game and wants to “pay it forward.” It was brief, but there was a sense of something deeper brewing. Perhaps the play being drawn up is the next chapter in the GOAT’s ongoing relationship with basketball, this time not through game-winning fadeaways, but perspective.
As we usher in another NBA season with its explosive rookies, evolving dynasties, and ever-revolving drama, one thing’s clear: it might just be the perfect time to fall in love with basketball all over again.
Michael Jordan: My obligation now is to 'pay it forward' | MJ: Insights to Excellence | NBA on NBC
Michael Jordan: My obligation now is to 'pay it forward' | MJ: Insights to Excellence | NBA on NBC
EBONYMIELLECOVER(MISSSPELMAN)
Aug_Issaselect14wide