For the first time in two decades, NBC will welcome the NBA back to its network this week. New information has now revealed what Michael Jordan will do live on air during the broadcast of the 2025-26 season opener.
Ahead of the big event, scheduled for Tuesday night, NBC Sports announced a major addition to its coverage. The halftime show of the Thunder-Rockets matchup will begin at 7:30 p.m., and the network will air a special interview featuring Jordan and Mike Tirico.
A consistent presence throughout the season
According to the New York Post, NBC will include Jordan as part of the series MJ: Insights to Excellence. A production created by the six-time NBA champion. NBC will broadcast the series throughout the entire season, and the network confirmed the details in a press release on Monday. Jordan surprised fans when he announced that he would join NBC’s NBA coverage. His goal is to make a special and ongoing contribution to the network’s programming.
An NBA on NBC promo on SNF, including a look at Mike Tirico interviewing Michael Jordan. 🏈🏀📺🎙️ #NFL #NBA #SNF pic.twitter.com/Y9jA179Rnu
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) October 20, 2025
CNBC reports that the initial plan is for Jordan to appear in pre-recorded segments. That will air throughout the season. His role will be to deliver analysis that NBC will include in its pregame shows and halftime coverage. The report adds that the exact format of his participation may change as the season unfolds. Depending on production plans and Jordan’s schedule. Even so, fans can expect the NBA legend to play a recurring role as the network relaunches its partnership with the league.
NBC will tip off the season with a doubleheader on Tuesday night. The broadcast will conclude with the first showdown between the Golden State Warriors and the Los Angeles Lakers. Which is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET. With Jordan involved, NBC hopes to generate massive anticipation and energize viewers on opening night. The network believes that adding one of the most influential figures in basketball history. Will elevate its storytelling and deliver a unique perspective to a new generation of fans.
