Charles Barkley and Michael Jordan have shared a long-standing relationship—both as fierce competitors during their NBA careers and as friends off the court.
Given Barkley’s deep involvement in NBA coverage as a longtime analyst with TNT, many assumed he’d be among the first to hear any major league news. But even he admitted he was completely caught off guard by the latest development involving Jordan.
Earlier this month, it was unexpectedly announced that Michael Jordan has agreed to become a “special contributor” to NBC’s NBA coverage, which will begin next season as part of the league’s new media rights deal.
During a recent appearance on Barstool Sports’ Spittin’ Chiclets podcast—while discussing the NHL playoffs—Barkley was asked about Jordan joining NBC’s broadcast team. Without hesitation, he admitted, “I was 100% shocked.”
“I have no idea what Michael is going to do. I don’t think he’s gonna do a lot,” Barkley admitted. “I know he’s not gonna do a lot. I was 100% shocked, but I don’t think he’s gonna do a lot. Period.”
With the NBA returning to NBC—where it aired during the prime years of both Barkley and Jordan’s playing careers—the network has worked to assemble a star-studded broadcast team.
In addition to landing Michael Jordan as a "special contributor," NBC has reportedly reached deals with Carmelo Anthony, Vince Carter, Jamal Crawford, Reggie Miller, Mike Tirico, and Noah Eagle, the son of renowned broadcaster Ian Eagle. Noah notably called Team USA’s gold-medal run at the Paris Olympics.
NBA great Michael Jordan.
NBA great Michael Jordan.
Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Meanwhile, Barkley and the iconic "Inside the NBA" crew—long a staple of the league’s pregame and postgame coverage on TNT—are expected to appear on ESPN next season, as the network has secured licensing rights to the popular show.