Mike Tirico Defends Michael Jordan From Backlash For His NBC TV Role

Although fans want to hear more about Michael Jordan’s thoughts on the current state of the NBA, it doesn’t sound like he’ll share his knowledge with the rest of the world.

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NBC excited NBA fans last year when it announced that Jordan was joining the network for its coverage of the 2025-26 season. Unfortunately, his “MJ: Insights To Excellence” docuseries only featured one lengthy interview involving him and NBC broadcaster Mike Tirico.

Front Office Sports then reported in August that Jordan isn’t expected to return to NBC for the 2026-27 season.

While at the “Tuned In” summit for Front Office Sports, Mike Tirico defended Jordan’s decision to walk away after one season.

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“I think Michael Jordan hadn’t been on TV for a long time for a reason. He likes being Michael Jordan. There’s an aura, even still, when he’s on camera, there’s an aura about Michael Jordan that is just different,” Tirico said. “Sitting across from him, it’s just a different feel. And I think he is above the day-to-day conversation of ‘Hey, who’s the best point guard in the NBA right now? And who’s best this or the best that?’ So I think in a controlled setting, talking about topics that he’s still passionate about with the sport, he loved it.”

Tirico still appreciates MJ’s one year with NBC.

While his interview with Jordan wasn’t considered one for the ages, Tirico certainly enjoyed his time spent with the six-time champion.

“Michael hasn’t sat down with a lot of folks over the last 20 years, and I’m honored that we did it,” he said. “And I think if people look at the content of what was there, and not what their expectations were or the other stuff, I think they’d come away and say, ‘You know, it’s pretty interesting to hear what he said.’ So glad Michael did it. Lucky to have the time around him. And if he ever does it again, I hope I’m the guy on the other side of the couch. If not, I’ll be sitting there and listening to him; that’s for darn sure.”

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Tirico will once again get to call NBA games for NBC this upcoming season.

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This story was originally published October 13, 2026 at 2:06 PM.