Michael Jordan Debuts as Special Contributor in NBC’s NBA Broadcast Return
Written by b87fm on 10/22/2025
Michael Jordan is basketball royalty — even for those who’ve never watched a single NBA game. His name alone defines greatness.
During halftime of the NBA’s opening night, Jordan sat down with Mike Tirico for the premiere of MJ: Insights to Excellence. In the candid conversation, the 62-year-old legend opened up about life after basketball — and just how much he still misses the game that made him an icon.
“I love it [basketball] like you wouldn’t believe,” Jordan said. “I wish I could take a magic pill, put on shorts, and go out and play… that type of competition is what I live for. I miss that aspect of the game. But it’s better for me to be sitting here talking to you than popping my Achilles and ending up in a wheelchair.”
“We have an obligation to pay it forward. That’s part of what this is all about.”
Watch Michael Jordan’s first conversation with Mike Tirico in the first edition of MJ: Insights To Excellence. pic.twitter.com/7tfzGm6SpM
— NBA on NBC and Peacock (@NBAonNBC) October 22, 2025
Jordan, who dominated the NBA with six championships, six Finals MVPs, and five league MVP awards, admitted he hasn’t picked up a basketball in years.
“You don’t see a hoop anywhere around here, right?” he joked. “I haven’t picked up a ball in years.”
He recalled one rare moment when he did — during the Ryder Cup, where the homeowner asked him to shoot a free throw for his grandkids.
“When I stepped up to shoot, that was the most nervous I’ve been in years,” Jordan laughed. “Those kids heard stories from their parents about what I did 30 years ago… their expectations were 30 years prior, and I hadn’t touched a basketball.”
Of course, he sank the shot. But these days, Jordan’s role isn’t about scoring — it’s about giving back.
“I have an obligation to the game of basketball,” he said. “Not financially, but spiritually — to pass on messages of success, dedication, and respect for the game.”
Watch the full clip below:
