The GOAT is stepping back into the spotlight. Starting with NBC’s 2025-26 NBA relaunch, Michael Jordan will serve as a “special contributor,” offering what Cris Collinsworth calls “a deep dive into the brain of Michael Jordan.”
Don’t expect Jordan to sit courtside firing off quick takes. NBC plans feature segments — pregame, halftime, maybe even late-night reflections — where MJ breaks down plays, mindset, and pressure like only he can. Think less punditry, more master-class.
Barstool Sports blogger Greenie explains why countless basketball aficionados believe it’s the perfect move:
Maybe I’m being a little naive in how much I’m buying into what Collinsworth is saying, but if this is true? HELL YES. Every single thing Collinsworth described in that clip is exactly how I want MJ to be used for NBC’s coverage.
I don’t need MJ to tell me who he thinks is the best player in the league or any of that shit. I want to know how he views things. How he looks at the game through the eyes of the GOAT. Give me all the details of what all of us as fans either don’t know, or aren’t even aware of. To me, that’s the perfect use of MJ’s brain. Have him explain different situations, have him do breakdowns of how he would attack certain defenses, have him explain the game how he would see if if he were playing. Give me all that stuff and none of the surface level coverage that ESPN has been doing for the longest time.
Collinsworth hinted the tone will feel like “a couple glasses of wine and a great conversation,” giving fans that rare look inside how the greatest ever sees the game. For NBC, it’s the perfect mix of nostalgia and innovation as it brings back the iconic NBA on NBC era with a modern twist.