Michael Jordan Resorts to Child-Like Tactics, Stealing Denny Hamlin’s Thunder in Rare Footage

Looking to add another win to his name and add a feather to his cap, Denny Hamlin put out an exceptional pace as the Cup Series action unfolded at the iconic 2.5-mile speedway in Daytona. While the Joe Gibbs Racing veteran came close to winning in the earlier stages of the race, it was his JGR teammate and fellow veteran, Martin Truex Jr., who had the last laugh.

With the 42-year-old ending the race with a decent 20th-place finish, Hamlin can now focus on his playoffs as he looks to earn his first-ever championship. Though NASCAR nation was focused on the horrors of superspeedway racing, Saturday’s race also had a generous moment when Hamlin’s 23XI Racing partner and NBA great, Michael Jordan, said hi to his partner in a wholesome gesture.

Michael Jordan stops and says hi to his partner after the No. 11 enters the playoffs

Ever since its inception, 23 XI Racing has managed to capture fans’ attention simply through its consistent performances and the presence of its larger-than-life owner, Michael Jordan. The business venture also has veteran Cup Series driver Denny Hamlin partnering with the basketball legend as they feature 2 full-time cars in NASCAR’s top-tier division.

Following the eventful and stunning speedway race at the organization’s crown jewel track, Denny Hamlin was interrupted during his on-track interview when his business partner stopped by to say hi in the most wholesome way possible.

Jordan extended his hand from the gathering as he tipped Hamlin’s hat to which the #11 driver acknowledged the sweet gesture with a simple smile.

READ MORE: NASCAR Fandom Destroys “Not a Good Teammate” Denny Hamlin After Joe Gibbs Ace Leaves Him “Salty”

With the veteran solidifying his playoff chances with 2 stellar wins earlier in the season, Jordan’s prodigy Bubba Wallace too made his first-ever playoffs after finishing 12th.

MJ congratulates Bubba Wallace as he makes the playoffs

While all eyes were on the Hendrick Motorsports duo of Chase Elliott and Alex Bowman, MJ’s prodigy made his first-ever playoff as the 2020 Cup Series champion failed to capitalize on the momentum, missing his playoffs for the first time in 5 years.

However, the mood was celebratory in 23XI Racing’s camp as both of its drivers- Tyler Reddick and Bubba Wallace- made the playoff 16 as Wallace finished a respectable 12th spot finish. With his driver making it into the 16, a proud MJ did not hesitate to congratulate his driver as the former Chicago Bulls guard hugged the 29-year-old on track.

Though the #23 driver was hanging by the thread as the action was headed to Daytona, his superspeedway prowess along with the team’s consistent and more than capable equipment sealed the deal as Wallace eyes to make it big.

WATCH THIS STORY: Michael Jordan’s star driver betrays Bubba Wallace with an arrogant statement 

Moreover, with his business partner and both of his drivers making it to the next stage, Jordan must be ecstatic as the Cup Series schedule changes the gears heading into the playoff rounds.