NBC recently announced that Michael Jordan would be part of the network’s return to broadcasting the NBA, leading to great fanfare. Fans also wondered what kind of role the legendary basketball star would fill in the network. It seems clear now that Jordan is a part of a weekly segment, Insights to Excellence, with host Mike Tirico. There, Jordan also made a revelation that left some fans emotional.
Michael Jordan talks about returning to basketball using a magic pill
Widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, Michael Jordan has a legacy few can and will match. He also had quite a long career, ending his streak in 2003 with the Washington Wizards. But it seems the star, who retired twice before, now wishes to play again.
The 62-year-old discussed this during his appearance on Insights to Excellence. It took place during halftime of the Houston Rockets game against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Discussing the game of basketball towards the end of the segment, Jordan said, “I have an obligation to the game of basketball. Not financially. I’m OK.” He continued, “I mean more or less for me as a basketball player it’s to be able to pass on messages of success and dedication to the game of basketball.”
Tirico asked him if he still loved the game. To this, he replied, “Love it like you wouldn’t believe… Honestly I wish I could take a magic pill, put on shorts and go out and play the game of basketball today, because that’s who I am. That type of competition is what I live for.” He continued, “And I miss it. I miss that aspect of playing the game of basketball, being able to challenge myself against what people see as great basketball, but it’s better for me to be sitting here talking to you as opposed to popping my achilles and being in a wheelchair for a while.”
If there were indeed a magic pill that could make Michael Jordan play again, the whole world would have come together to give it to him. Everyone would want to see him back on the court.
Jordan holds a legacy that will perhaps never be challenged. He continues to remain a phenomenon in both the basketball world and in popular culture.
