The cat’s out of the bag. In this case, the Black Cat is back again. The new media rights deal meant NBC would once again air NBA games, but nobody expected they would rope in Michael Jordan for next season. His Airness will join the network as a “special contributor” for NBC Sports’ coverage. Despite being a competitor, Stephen A. Smith feels the move will already be a great one. But other analysts don’t seem to board that train as they have multiple questions of their own.
First, let’s talk about the deal. At the time, only MJ’s role is revealed, with no timeline about the contract. Plus, there is also no clarity about the duties that the 6x NBA champion will perform in his new role. Naturally, the questions will be raised if the future is not clear, and that’s why Steve Covino and Rich Davis are speculating about the motives. “But what does a guy like Michael Jordan bring to the table?” asked Davis.
Chiming in, co-host Covino stated what the North Carolina alum needs to steer clear of. “By the way, does he start cutting in like the other old heads like the Barkley’s and Shaq’s of the world, where they’re just dumping on these younger dudes. Because that might be a bad look too, that might be something we don’t want to see from Michael Jordan.” Inside the NBA is always in question with their overly critical analysis of players. Them taking shots at Embiid, Gobert doesn’t sit right with fans despite it being a fan favorite.
That’s why the Fox Sports broadcaster warned Michael Jordan that it would bring scrutiny to him as well. “He is setting himself up for extra criticism and back and forth with these players. He may be exposed with his opinions and his thoughts where he never was before. And that’s why he maintained a level of awesomeness in our minds.” Accessibility of MJ is undoubtedly a huge part of his lore; that’s why he has stayed away from the spotlight and the game for the longest time.
“You don’t get a Michael Jordan unless he wants to do it. Yeah, great move for the NBA, but there’s got to be great incentive for this dude, he has too much to lose.” Keeping in mind his popularity, plus his continued work with Nike, Covinho felt it would be uncharted territory for His Airness.
Despite blurry contract details, Michael Jordan has a supporter in the veteran ESPN analyst
The only guaranteed detail we know so far is that MJ is joining the $128.66 billion network. Apart from this, “I am so excited to see the NBA back on NBC,” Jordan said in a statement. “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.” Despite this, Stephen A. Smith is excited for the future.
ATLANTA, GA – SEPTEMBER 08: 23xi co-owner Michael Jordan talks with members of his team prior to the running of the NASCAR, Motorsport, USA Cup Series Quaker State 400 available at Walmart on September 08, 2024 at Atlanta Motor Speedway in Hampton, GA. Photo by Jeff Robinson/Icon Sportswire AUTO: SEP 08 NASCAR Cup Series Quaker State 400 available at Walmart EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon2409083317400
Let’s not forget, he is close to MJ and often fights the GOAT debate on the Bulls icon’s behalf on ESPN. Even recently, he inked an extension earning $100 million split over 5 years. “If it’s the Michael Jordan we speak to, it’s gonna be epic.” 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.
So, SAS believes the personality of Michael Jordan will connect with Michael Jordan. After all, The Last Dance was a hit for this reason only. On the other hand, Steve Covino and Rich Davis raise the question of MJ having the last word in the documentary played a huge role. They questioned if the new role with NBC would allow that level of control. Only time will tell what exactly the network has in store for the Bulls icon.
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