In a groundbreaking announcement that has sent shockwaves through the sports world, ESPN revealed on May 12, 2025, that NBA legend Michael Jordan will join its WNBA coverage as a special contributor. The news, which marks a significant moment for both the WNBA and sports broadcasting, was unveiled during ESPN’s annual Upfront presentation to advertisers. Jordan, widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time, brings his unparalleled legacy and charisma to a league that continues to grow in prominence and cultural impact.
The announcement was accompanied by a video message from Jordan himself, where he expressed enthusiasm for his new role. “I’m thrilled to be joining ESPN to contribute to WNBA coverage,” Jordan said. “The WNBA is a league full of incredible talent, inspiring stories, and a powerful platform for change. I’m looking forward to bringing my perspective to the game and connecting with fans in a new way.” While the specifics of his role remain somewhat undefined, ESPN described Jordan as a “special contributor,” suggesting a blend of on-air appearances, analysis, and storytelling that will leverage his deep basketball expertise and global star power.
Jordan’s involvement with the WNBA is not entirely new. In 2021, his Jordan Brand made history by partnering with 11 WNBA players, the largest group of female Jumpman endorsees ever, to celebrate the league’s 25th anniversary. That initiative highlighted his commitment to amplifying women’s voices in sports and supporting Black community initiatives, a mission that aligns with the WNBA’s ethos. Now, as a contributor to ESPN’s coverage, Jordan is poised to further elevate the league’s visibility at a time when viewership is soaring, thanks in part to stars like Caitlin Clark, whom broadcaster Mike Breen recently compared to Jordan for her impact on the WNBA’s popularity.[](
The timing of Jordan’s announcement is notable. The WNBA has seen unprecedented growth, with 32 telecasts reaching over one million viewers in 2024, a milestone not achieved since 2008. ESPN has also expanded its WNBA studio coverage, adding high-profile hosts like Malika Andrews to its lineup, signaling a strategic push to capitalize on the league’s momentum. Jordan’s addition is a coup for the network, which aims to make WNBA broadcasts must-see events, much like the iconic NBA on NBC broadcasts of the 1990s that featured Jordan’s Chicago Bulls. Those broadcasts, known for their dramatic player introductions and cultural resonance, set a gold standard for sports television.
What can fans expect from Jordan in this role? While details are scarce, his presence is likely to bring a mix of nostalgia, gravitas, and insider perspective. As a six-time NBA champion, five-time MVP, and cultural icon, Jordan’s insights into the game are unmatched. His ability to connect with audiences, honed through decades in the spotlight, could make him a compelling figure in the WNBA’s storytelling. Whether he’s breaking down key plays, sharing anecdotes from his career, or highlighting the league’s rising stars, Jordan’s involvement promises to draw both casual viewers and diehard basketball fans.
For the WNBA, Jordan’s participation is a testament to its growing influence. The league has long been a platform for social justice and cultural change, with players like Maya Moore and Jordin Canada using their voices to drive impact. Jordan’s endorsement, both through his brand and now his on-air role, underscores the WNBA’s role as a leader in sports and society. As he steps into this new chapter, the question isn’t whether Jordan will make an impact, but how profound that impact will be.[]()
This move also reflects Jordan’s evolving legacy. Since retiring in 2003, he has focused on business ventures, including his ownership of the Charlotte Hornets (which he sold in 2023) and his Jordan Brand’s expansion into women’s sports. His decision to join ESPN’s WNBA coverage suggests a desire to remain connected to basketball’s future while honoring its present. As the WNBA continues to break barriers, Michael Jordan’s voice will undoubtedly amplify its message, making this partnership one of the most exciting developments in sports
