"Everybody’s Afraid of Michael Jordan": Jason Whitlock Refuses to Say 'Nice, Glowing Things' About Bulls Legend’s Meaningless NBC Debut

Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan made his debut as a special contributor to NBC Sports on Tuesday night. Former sports columnist Jason Whitlock on Wednesday wasn’t impressed as he was disappointed by the Bulls legend’s performance.

Whitlock shared his thoughts on his channel, “Jason Whitlock” on YouTube.

“I'm just going to warm you up here,” Whitlock said. [Start from 5:29]. “I'm going to start by being the per the person bold enough to go on record that the 3 minutes and 30 seconds that Michael Jordan appeared on their halftime show was not some raging success.” “It wasn't some special moment that uh you know we should all be relishing,” he added. “Everybody's afraid of Michael Jordan, and so everybody just says nice glowing things. We must treat him as an idol. I just can't do it. And I've never been able to do it.”

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NBC made its return to broadcasting league games since 2002. It announced that Jordan will join their coverage of the NBA as a “special contributor” starting with the 2025-26 season.

In the first edition of his segment, “MJ: Insights to Excellence,” Jordan told NBC’s lead play-by-play commentator Mike Tirico why he joined the network as a special contributor.

"To pay it forward," Jordan told Tirico. "I have an obligation to the game of basketball, not financially. I'm okay. I think more or less, as a basketball player, you should be able to pass on messages of success and dedication to the game of basketball. ... As professional athletes, we have an obligation to pay it forward. That's part of what this is all about, to pay it forward."

Jordan concluded that he’s spent more time with his family since retiring. Fans will be interested to know more about his legendary career during his segment.

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Michael Jordan claimed he hadn't picked up a basketball in years.

Michael Jordan made a stunning admission about the last time he played basketball on Tuesday. He claimed he hadn't played in years.

"I haven't picked up a ball in years,” Jordan said. “When I stepped up to shoot the free throw, it was the most nervous I've been in years," Jordan said.

Jordan is widely considered the NBA’s GOAT. He won six titles with the Bulls, while playing a major role in the sport's global popularity.

Edited by Ubong Richard