Michael Jordan returns to the NBA as a commentator for NBC for the 25-26 season.

Michael Jordan, six-time NBA champion with the Chicago Bulls and Hall of Fame member, confirmed his return to the NBA. However, it is not a third stint as a player at 62 years old, nor a return as a franchise owner, but rather he will take on the role of special contributor in NBC Sports' television coverage starting from the 2025-26 season, scheduled for October. The announcement was made this Monday during a presentation at Radio City Music Hall in New York.

"I'm very excited," stated MJ, who will take on a role for which he is more than prepared, although he only occasionally served when his opinion was requested as an analyst. "The NBA on NBC was a significant part of my career, and I'm excited to be a special contributor to the project," he added.

Rick Cordella, president of the network, emphasized the significance of the agreement: "Michael's legacy, both on and off the court, speaks for itself. We are incredibly proud to have him as part of our coverage".

Recognized by many as the greatest basketball player in history, Jordan led the Bulls to six championships in the 90s. His era as the league's main figure coincided with the first phase of NBA broadcasts by NBC, between 1990 and 2002.

In July 2024, NBCUniversal and the NBA announced an 11-year agreement for the broadcast of regular season and play-off games for both the NBA and WNBA, across multiple platforms starting in 2025. NBC Sports also confirmed its main team of commentators and analysts, which includes other great personalities: Jamal Crawford and Reggie Miller as game analysts; Carmelo Anthony as studio analyst; and Mike Tirico and Noah Eagle as main announcers. The production will be handled by Frank DiGraci, an Emmy Award winner.

Jordan after his retirement

Away from the court, Jordan has developed as a businessman, investor, and philanthropist. The Jordan brand, a division of Nike, has been a leader in sports apparel and footwear since 1997. He was the first former player to become the majority owner of an NBA franchise, the Charlotte Hornets, a team from which he sold his stake in 2023, and, in 2020, he founded the 23XI Racing team in NASCAR with Denny Hamlin.

He also actively participated in the making of the documentary "The Last Dance", centered on the last season of those legendary Bulls alongside his teammates Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman. The production, released on Netflix, was a global phenomenon, although it reignited certain tensions among the main figures of the team.

In the social sphere, he has supported numerous causes related to vulnerable youth, children with illnesses or disabilities, educators, and communities affected by disasters. The Michael Jordan Family Medical Clinics, in collaboration with Novant Health, provide essential care in North Carolina. Since 2008, Jordan has also served as Chief Wish Ambassador for Make-A-Wish, fulfilling dreams for over thirty years.