Michael Jordan has never been one to shy away from a big bet. The NBA legend, who built a dynasty with the Chicago Bulls, is now putting his chips on the table in the NASCAR world. With 23XI Racing enjoying a breakout season, Jordan is doubling down in a major way.
Tyler Reddick, the driver of the No. 45 car for 23XI Racing, has been on a tear this season, racking up five wins in just nine starts. He’s aiming for number six this weekend, and Jordan is making sure the team’s star stays put for the long haul. The team officially announced on Sunday that Reddick has signed a massive, long-term contract extension with 23XI Racing.
Jordan, who co-owns the team alongside Denny Hamlin, has been the financial backbone of the operation. While His Airness might not be trackside every weekend—though his unfiltered antics at NASCAR events have kept social media buzzing—he’s clearly all in on the team’s future.
Hamlin, the veteran driver who handles the day-to-day operations, couldn’t be more thrilled with the partnership. “It’s just a perfect partnership. I don’t even know how to explain it. It’s because this doesn’t work unless he gives me the autonomy to do it,” Hamlin said. He added, “He was just so appreciative of the fact that he says, ‘Okay, here’s my percent, here’s your percent, but you’re going to have to build it. You’re going to have to do the work. You’re the boots on the ground.’ And so that was what I wanted, right? You know, where I get the gratification is from building something from scratch.”
That dynamic has clearly paid off. Under Hamlin’s leadership and Jordan’s financial backing, 23XI Racing has transformed from a startup into a legitimate contender. Reddick’s five wins this season have put the team on the map, and the contract extension signals that the ownership group believes this is just the beginning.
Reddick himself confirmed the news on Sunday afternoon, expressing his excitement to stay with the team. For Jordan and company, locking down a driver of Reddick’s caliber is a no-brainer. The team is riding high, and the investment is a clear message: 23XI Racing isn’t just here to compete—they’re here to dominate.
This move also underscores Jordan’s growing commitment to motorsports. While some fans have debated his role—especially with his NBC role sparking fan fury for focusing more on NASCAR than NBA commentary—there’s no questioning his dedication to building a winning organization. For Hamlin, having Jordan as a partner means having the resources and trust to make bold moves.
As the NASCAR season heats up, all eyes will be on Reddick and the No. 45 car. With five wins already in the bag and a new contract in hand, the sky’s the limit for 23XI Racing. Jordan’s big investment is a bet on speed, talent, and a partnership that’s firing on all cylinders.
