Out of nowhere yesterday, Michael Jordan dominated the headlines about his basketball return. No, it’s not majority ownership or any coaching role, and definitely not as a player. The Bulls legend will once again be back on the NBC network as a special contributor. Apart from ESPN and Amazon, NBCUniversal was the third network to win the $76 billion deal over the next 11 years. But there is more to why the NBA icon is brought back to the network.
First and foremost, having the name MJ will definitely increase the viewership and bring in more eyeballs. However, the network has faced problems of its own over the years. A few years ago, the Wall Street Journal’s Joe Flint reported that NBC even considered giving away its prime time hour in order to compete with the streaming resurgence. Yes, they had plans to give the 10 to 11 p.m. prime-time hour back to local affiliates. In terms of planning, that was not the only change.
The corporate restructuring of CNBC and MSNBC, two networks synonymous with the “NBC” brand, will sever their corporate ties with NBC News. Once again, keeping in mind that streaming is the future and current traditional cable networks, once television’s shining stars, are now perceived as burdens. Speaking about burdens, the network did itself no favor by axing multiple shows. Let’s not forget, NBCUniversal has over $128.66 billion networth.
Recently, NBC announced it has axed five shows in total, with Found being one of them after just two seasons. The list of cancelations includes the reboot of the courtroom comedy, Night Court, dropped after three seasons. Apart from them, Lopez vs Lopez, The Irrational, and Suits LA, a spinoff of the series that catapulted Meghan Markle to fame. The news that angered the fans most is that this news comes just before the Season 2 finale of Found.
The episode, which will now serve as the series finale, is set to air on May 15 and will have the face-off between Gabi (Hampton) and Sir’s sister Lena (Danielle Savre). So, the move to bring in Michael Jordan is also to earn more trust of the audience and the ad buyers this upcoming NBA season.
Michael Jordan reacts to his iconic move, bringing appreciation from the $100 million analyst
“Is it gonna be the Michael Jordan you see on television? Or is it gonna be the Michael Jordan we speak to?” Long-time friend of the Bulls legend, Stephen A. Smith, raised the question. Now that MJ’s role is that of the special contributor, it makes him a rival to SAS and ESPN. Yet, Smith had no problem appreciating the North Carolina alum. “If it’s the Michael Jordan we speak to, it’s gonna be epic.”
Oct 22, 2023; Homestead, Florida, USA; 23XI Team co-owner Michael Jordan sits atop of the pitbox during the 4EVER 400 presented by Mobil 1 at Homestead-Miami Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images
Stephen A.’s comments were a broadcast professional’s appeal, not merely a fan’s wish. Smith claims the private-speaking Jordan is energetic, perceptive, and brutally honest. “The things he will say and the way he says and the way he breaks it down… that is on another level.” This invoked hope in fans. And Michael Jordan is not taking the task lightly. “I am so excited to see the NBA back on NBC,” MJ said in a statement released by the network.
“The NBA on NBC was a meaningful part of my career, and I’m excited about being a special contributor to the project. I’m looking forward to seeing you all when the NBA on NBC launches this October.” Apart from His Airness, the “Roundball Rock” theme song of the 90s show will be returning to the network. Other commentators will include NBA veterans Jamal Crawford, Carmelo Anthony, and Reggie Miller. Those who have a history with MJ, so naturally a great fit for the NBC.
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