Michael Jordan to Join NBC Sports as Special Contributor
Michael Jordan, the legendary basketball player, is set to return to the sport's media landscape as a special contributor for NBC Sports' NBA coverage starting in the fall. Jordan expressed his excitement about NBC's return to NBA broadcasting, which was a significant part of his career during his playing days with the Chicago Bulls. The network, which last held NBA broadcast rights in 2002, has secured an 11-year agreement to air NBA and WNBA games. NBC will feature games on Peacock and introduce 'Sunday Night Basketball' in January 2026, marking a comprehensive expansion of their sports coverage. Jordan's involvement adds prestige to NBC's renewed coverage, reflecting the network's commitment to delivering high-quality basketball content to its audience.
Context:
Michael Jordan, the legendary basketball player, is set to return to the sport's media landscape as a special contributor for NBC Sports' NBA coverage starting in the fall. Jordan expressed his excitement about NBC's return to NBA broadcasting, which was a significant part of his career during his playing days with the Chicago Bulls. The network, which last held NBA broadcast rights in 2002, has secured an 11-year agreement to air NBA and WNBA games. NBC will feature games on Peacock and introduce 'Sunday Night Basketball' in January 2026, marking a comprehensive expansion of their sports coverage. Jordan's involvement adds prestige to NBC's renewed coverage, reflecting the network's commitment to delivering high-quality basketball content to its audience.
Dive Deeper:
Michael Jordan will join NBC Sports as a special contributor for NBA coverage, marking his return to the basketball media scene this fall.
NBC is resuming NBA broadcasts after a 23-year hiatus, having previously held the rights from 1990 to 2002, a period during which Jordan won six championships with the Chicago Bulls.
An 11-year agreement has been established between NBC and the NBA to televise both NBA and WNBA games, showcasing the network's long-term commitment to basketball.
Peacock will exclusively stream games on Monday nights, while NBC and Peacock will have regional doubleheaders on Tuesdays, expanding access to live basketball content.
The introduction of 'Sunday Night Basketball' in January 2026 is part of NBC's strategy to strengthen its sports programming, aiming to attract a broad audience.
Jordan's role as a special contributor is not only a significant personal milestone but also enhances NBC's coverage credibility, given his iconic status in the sport.
NBC's return to NBA broadcasting, alongside Michael Jordan's participation, underscores a major shift in sports media, aiming to recapture the excitement of the 'NBA on NBC' era.
Michael Jordan is returning to the world of basketball!On Monday (May 12), it was announced that the 62-year-old basketball legend is joining NBC Sports as a special contributor for the network’s NBA coverage beginning this fall.
“I am so excited to see the NBA back on NBC,” Jordan shared in a video message shared on NBA on NBC’s X account. “The NBA on NBC was a meaningful part of my career, and I’m excited about being a special contributor to the project.”
Keep reading to find out more…“I’m looking forward to seeing you all when the NBA on NBC launches this October,” he added.
This fall marks NBC’s return to covering the NBA after a 23-year year absence. The network had NBA rights from 1990 through 2002 and carried all six of Jordan’s championships as player for the Chicago Bulls.
NBC now has an 11-year agreement to cover the NBA and WNBA. Peacock will exclusively stream games on Monday nights while NBC and Peacock will have regional doubleheaders on Tuesdays. NBC and Peacock will also launch “Sunday Night Basketball” in January 2026.
A legendary addition to our team!
We’re thrilled to welcome Michael Jordan as a special contributor to the NBA on NBC and Peacock. pic.twitter.com/Pjsq8tokfi
— NBA on NBC and Peacock (@NBAonNBC) May 12, 2025