Michael Jordan wasn’t just great, he changed the sport forever. Whether it was his six championships, five MVPs, or his iconic shoes, he made the NBA global, and along with it, he himself became a global icon. His fierce mindset set the bar for others. So many generations of players came up inspired by him. Kobe Bryant, Lebron James are among them. When the best of the best hold you to such a high pedestal, that shows your true greatness! What’s more? Even after retiring, he didn’t just relax. Instead, he turned his name into an empire, building the Jordan Brand and making bold business moves that helped him reach a reported $3 billion net worth.

Now, he’s taking another unexpected step. NBC recently announced that Jordan will join its NBA coverage as a special contributor. That’s right! His Airness is heading back to the screen. It’s a move that surprised almost everyone. While the exact role is still unclear, the buzz is real. Earlier, MJ stated, “I am so excited to see the NBA back on NBC. The NBA on NBC was a meaningful part of my career, and I’m excited about being a special contributor to the project.” It’s a historic moment for the network, and one that the fans are already looking forward to!

But here’s where things get interesting. On Run It Back, Lou Williams was quick to pour cold water on the hype. “Absolutely not. Not buying. Not buying,” he said when asked if Jordan would be a real presence on the show. When Beadle joked about over-under two appearances, Lou confidently said, “Under.” Then he said something even more bold: “Michael Jordan don’t care about no basketball player that ain’t wearing that Jumpman symbol.” It was a blunt statement, and now the question arises: will Jordan be biased towards the new generation of players? What about those not donning his merch?

As the conversation continued, Chandler Parsons said he was curious to hear Jordan’s honest takes. Who does he think is underrated? Or overrated? He also predicted, “We’ll get a Michael opening, like their first game, we’ll get him, and then I don’t know when he’ll come back.” Meanwhile, Beadle compared the situation to Kobe’s media deal, where most of his role was behind the scenes. She added, “They signed a deal, but most of the deal was that we would air, because, you know, he was producing like the animation and all that stuff.” Maybe Jordan’s path will follow that same model, but either way, his presence has everyone talking; that is something that the cast agrees on.

Michael Jordan’s warning to the new generation might hint at what’s coming on NBC

Back in August 2024, Michael Jordan gave a rare glimpse into what might define his upcoming NBC appearance: his unfiltered honesty. In an interview that raised eyebrows, MJ didn’t hold back about his concerns for today’s NBA players. “They’re skipping a lot of steps,” he said, noting how younger stars are rushing success and losing touch with the grind. Coming from someone who built a legacy step by step.

Jordan’s main issue wasn’t with players getting paid. In fact, he praised the opportunities available now. But it was the mindset that concerned him. “A door has been opened, and everybody’s trying to get to that door and get as much as they can,” he said. The message? The hunger for money is outpacing the love for the game. He wasn’t just being nostalgic, he was sounding the alarm. The work ethic that once defined greatness, he warned, is slowly being replaced by branding deals and quick exits from college.

If that tone carries over to his role with NBC, fans shouldn’t expect polished soundbites or sugar-coated takes. Jordan’s already set the tone, he’s going to speak his truth. His criticism wasn’t about a specific player but a generation that, in his eyes, is prioritizing fast fame over lasting greatness.

So, when Jordan joins the NBC crew, don’t be surprised if he challenges young stars on live TV. He’s not chasing headlines, he’s defending a standard. And if this 2024 clip taught us anything, it’s that Jordan still views the game like it’s sacred. The real question now is: is the new generation ready for that kind of truth, broadcast weekly?