Stephen A. Smith Predicts Michael Jordan Will Speak Candidly on NBC

NEW YORK, NY — Stephen A. Smith, a prominent sports commentator, predicted that Michael Jordan will not hold back in his new role with NBC‘s NBA coverage. During his appearance on the PBD Podcast on June 9, 2025, Smith expressed confidence that Jordan would deliver honest commentary similar to his portrayal in the acclaimed documentary, ‘The Last Dance.’

At the upfronts last month, NBC confirmed it would resume its NBA coverage later this year, prompting excitement among basketball fans. Smith, who maintains regular contact with Jordan, believes the basketball legend will be brutally honest in his insights. “Let me tell you something about Michael Jordan: He’s going to be brutally honest—I can assure you that,” Smith said. “He’s not going to be somebody who’s going to be passive.”

Smith’s remarks highlight the anticipation surrounding Jordan’s commentary style. Fans hope to hear the same candidness that characterized his past interviews. “He ain’t trying to hurt nobody’s feelings. He ain’t trying to be insulting—but he’s going to tell you what’s going on,” Smith added.

In his passionate encouragement to Jordan, Smith urged him to embrace this opportunity. “Stop acting like you have nothing to say about basketball now that you’re retired—you talk about it all the damn time!” he said. He believes that the valuation of Jordan’s brand, reportedly over $2 billion, demonstrates that he does not need this role for financial reasons.

Smith also mentioned that Jordan has previously reached out to him when he disagreed with Smith’s on-air comments—indicating that the GOAT will not shy away from engaging publicly. “I don’t think he’s going to be shy about saying what he sees—at all,” Smith concluded.

While Smith also addressed rumors that NBC is paying Jordan $40 million annually, a source told Front Office Sports that this figure is exaggerated. As fans await more details, the excitement builds for Jordan’s highly anticipated return to the NBA discussion.