Overview
- The comments aired Tuesday on NBC’s MJ: Insights to Excellence with Mike Tirico as part of 2025–26 NBA coverage.
- Jordan said his deal guaranteed salary even if he was hurt in unsanctioned pickup games, calling it a point of pride.
- He argued that competitive pickup runs accelerated his development and said many current players rely too heavily on trainer drills.
- Jordan contrasted his clause with today’s contracts shaped by insurance concerns, a shift often justified by high-profile pickup injuries such as Chet Holmgren’s.
- He added that the Jordan brand followed his on-court performance and noted playing before social media helped keep his focus on the game.