When Michael Jordan, widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time, entered NASCAR as a team owner in 2020, it sent shockwaves through the sports world. As the owner of 23XI Racing, Jordan has helped elevate NASCAR’s profile, bringing in new fans and attention to the sport. But while his passion for racing is now well-documented, the backstory of how he got involved in NASCAR has a surprising twist—and it involves a fellow NBA legend.
The Friend Who Sparked Jordan’s NASCAR Journey
It turns out, Michael Jordan’s leap into NASCAR was heavily influenced by none other than Denny Hamlin, a longtime NASCAR star and Jordan’s close friend. Hamlin, who co-owns 23XI Racing, wasn’t shy about pitching the idea to Jordan, knowing his competitive spirit and love for speed would make him a natural fit for the sport.
But what most fans don’t know is that the initial seed was planted years earlier by NBA legend Brad Daugherty. A former Cleveland Cavaliers All-Star and lifelong NASCAR fan, Daugherty is a team co-owner in the sport and one of its most recognizable ambassadors. During casual conversations about their post-NBA interests, Daugherty encouraged Jordan to consider NASCAR as more than just a casual pastime.
Jordan’s Hilarious Reaction
According to sources close to both legends, Jordan initially laughed off the idea of owning a NASCAR team, joking that his “racing skills” were limited to basketball courts, not tracks. “Michael wasn’t sold at first,” Daugherty later revealed. “He joked that the closest he’d get to a pit stop was parking his Ferrari.”
However, Jordan’s competitive nature wouldn’t let the idea fade entirely. Over the years, as he followed NASCAR more closely and developed friendships with drivers like Denny Hamlin, the allure of the sport began to grow. When the opportunity arose in 2020 to launch 23XI Racing, Jordan was finally ready to dive in.
From Doubt to Dominance
Fast-forward to today, and Jordan’s involvement in NASCAR has been nothing short of transformative. Partnering with Hamlin, Jordan’s team fields cars for drivers Bubba Wallace and Tyler Reddick, both of whom have delivered major wins. Wallace’s 2021 victory at Talladega Superspeedway marked a historic moment as he became the first Black driver to win a NASCAR Cup Series race in nearly 60 years under Jordan’s ownership.
Jordan’s commitment to excellence has extended beyond the racetrack. From investing in state-of-the-art facilities to recruiting top-tier talent, his influence has helped elevate the level of competition at 23XI Racing.
The Brad Daugherty Connection
While Daugherty’s role in introducing Jordan to the world of NASCAR often flies under the radar, it’s a testament to his passion for the sport. A co-owner of JTG Daugherty Racing, Daugherty has long been a pioneer in NASCAR, helping to bridge the gap between racing and other sports.
The friendship between Daugherty and Jordan adds another layer to the story, showcasing how connections from their NBA days have continued to influence their lives in unexpected ways.
A New Chapter for NASCAR
Michael Jordan’s entry into NASCAR represents more than just a business move—it’s a cultural shift. His presence has attracted new fans to the sport, particularly from demographics that NASCAR has long sought to engage.
Looking back on his journey, Jordan admits he’s glad he listened to the encouragement of friends like Brad Daugherty and Denny Hamlin. “I’ve always loved competition,” Jordan said in a recent interview. “NASCAR is just another arena where I can chase greatness—this time, as an owner.”
From skepticism to success, Michael Jordan’s path into NASCAR is a story of friendship, risk-taking, and his unrelenting drive to win. As 23XI Racing continues to grow, fans can thank the unlikely influence of an NBA legend like Brad Daugherty for helping steer Jordan into this new and exciting chapter of his life.
