Michael Jordan Finds Joy in NASCAR Ownership

The NBA legend's 23XI Racing team has won the first two races of the 2026 season.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Since retiring from the NBA, Michael Jordan has found a new passion in NASCAR ownership. His team, 23XI Racing, has gotten off to a hot start in 2026, winning the first two races of the season with driver Tyler Reddick. Jordan, who was often seen looking frustrated during his tenure as owner of the Charlotte Hornets, appears to have found his niche in the world of auto racing.

Why it matters

Jordan's success in NASCAR stands in stark contrast to his struggles as an NBA owner. The 23XI Racing team's early-season dominance shows that Jordan has found an outlet where he can thrive as an owner, providing a sense of joy and fulfillment that was often lacking during his time with the Hornets.

The details

23XI Racing, co-owned by Jordan and Denny Hamlin, has won the first two races of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season. Tyler Reddick, driving the team's No. 45 car, won the Daytona 500 and the Autotrader 400 at Echo Park Speedway. Reddick's teammate, Bubba Wallace, also finished in the top 10 at Daytona.

  • The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season began on February 19, 2026 at Daytona International Speedway.
  • Reddick won the Daytona 500 on February 19, 2026.
  • Reddick won the Autotrader 400 at Echo Park Speedway on February 26, 2026.

The players

Michael Jordan

The NBA legend and owner of 23XI Racing, a NASCAR Cup Series team.

Tyler Reddick

The driver of the No. 45 car for 23XI Racing, who has won the first two races of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season.

Denny Hamlin

The co-owner of 23XI Racing and a current driver in the NASCAR Cup Series.

Bubba Wallace

A driver for 23XI Racing who finished in the top 10 at the Daytona 500.

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What they’re saying

“I can't even believe it. It was so gratifying. I'm ecstatic. I don't even know what to say. It feels like I won a championship.”

— Michael Jordan, Owner, 23XI Racing (SI.com)

“Do you guys understand the responsibilities that you have? You have the power to bring joy to Michael Jordan. You have that power. Nobody else can do it. There's nothing else that can bring him the joy that seeing his team [win] can.”

— Denny Hamlin, Co-Owner, 23XI Racing (SI.com)

What’s next

The next major event for 23XI Racing will be the Pennzoil 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on March 5, 2026, where the team will look to continue its strong start to the season.

The takeaway

Michael Jordan's success as a NASCAR team owner stands in stark contrast to his struggles as an NBA owner. The joy and fulfillment he has found in the racing world provides a stark reminder that even the greatest athletes can struggle to translate their on-field prowess to the business side of sports.