Bubba Wallace and 23XI go way back. Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan have co-owned the NASCAR team since 2020 and the Alabama native was their first driver, who was enlisted in the No. 23 car, a number that is synonymous with the NBA star’s iconic career. Since then, the team has gone from strength to strength, evolving rapidly with the help of Joe Gibbs Racing’s technical alliance and have enlisted the likes of Tyler Reddick and Riley Herbst to become serious title contenders.

However, having a high-profile owner such as Jordan comes with its fair share of benefits. Known for his insatiable winning mentality, the NBA Hall of Famer remains as committed to 23XI Racing as he was on day 1, as revealed by Bubba Wallace in a candid interview.

Bubba Wallace is grateful for Jordan’s contributions

Michael Jordan’s entry into NASCAR was revolutionary. The legendary basketball player became the first black owner of a full-time Cup Series team, breaking barriers in a sport that was not traditionally associated with certain communities. Bubba Wallace, who is also African American, joined the team from Richard Petty Motorsports, a move that marked a pivotal moment for both the racer and his team.

Together, both Bubba Wallace and Michael Jordan have been through plenty of highs and lows but have stuck together despite the adversities. Reflecting on the NBA star’s commitment, the No. 23 Toyota driver said on The Trey Wallace Podcast, “He’s (Jordan) always watching, no matter where he’s at in the world. I think that’s really cool. I think that’s beneficial for all of us. I mean that for myself to every last employee at 23XI. They know the commitment that he has, and it’s just really really special to be a part of it.”

When Tyler Reddick won the Homestead-Miami playoff race last year to lock into the Championship 4, Jordan was right there waiting at pit lane and gave him a huge bear hug. Jordan yelled in excitement, “Yeah, baby! Good job, kid!” Seeing a billionaire owner be so involved when he could easily be sitting at home and celebrating with a glass of wine speaks volumes to Jordan’s commitment. However, his relationship with Bubba Wallace goes beyond the racetrack.

Wallace is an outspoken advocate for diversity and social change in NASCAR. As one of the few drivers of color, the Alabama native has faced unique challenges in the stock car racing series, such as when a noose was found in his garage stall in 2020. Jordan was one of the prominent sports figures who expressed solidarity with the racer. Despite his stature, MJ is also always present on the racetracks to cheer his drivers on, while former team owners such as Tony Stewart have been criticized for their lack of involvement with the team.

“I mean I heard from the owner twice in two weeks so that’s different,” Kevin Harvcik said when he stepped in for Kyle Larson at Stewart-Haas Racing last year during the latter’s Indy500 preparation. This reflects the different tangents the two teams have been on. 23XI Racing experienced a quick rise to fame, similar to SHR, with Stewart delivering a title in his third year as driver/owner in 2011. However, as time went on and Stewart left the seat, his presence at the racetrack became a pertinent problem.

On the flip side, Michael Jordan has been an ever-present figure to help his team, notably Bubba Wallace, cope with any difficulties that may have arisen. For the legendary basketball player, Wallace is more than just a driver. He’s a part of a larger movement toward equality and fairness in the world of motorsports. It’s clear that MJ is committed, not just when it comes to what happens on the track, but off it too.

Trending

1

NASCAR Star Drops Life-Changing Announcement as Racing Community Melts Over Welcome Surprise

2

3x Daytona 500 Champ Left in Tears Accompanying Tony Stewart’s Rival Into the Motorsport Hall of Fame

3

Richard Petty’s Son Betrays the King’s NASCAR Legacy With Humble Dale Earnhardt Claim

4

Kyle Larson Uncovers Welcome $18 Million Surprise Amidst NASCAR’s Michael Jordan Lawsuit Tussle

5

Kyle Busch Bags Another Deal as $700M Partner Extends More Lifeline After Iconic Sponsor’s Exit

Michael Jordan has given NASCAR a new life

NASCAR desperately needed a shakeup. After years of being stagnant, it’s fair to say that Michael Jordan’s involvement in the stock car racing series is one of the best things that has happened to the sport in the last decade. The 62-year-old’s stature is undeniable, and his name is synonymous with winning and excellence. Given his high-profile presence, it’s not surprising that being co-owner of 23XI has attracted new audiences to the sport, giving it a global appeal.

Jordan’s fame has helped expand NASCAR’s reach far beyond its traditional white and southern fanbase. Reflecting on the positive changes being made to the sport, Wallace said, “A brand new, different demographic coming into the sport, which has been cool. It’s been awesome to see the changes and people accepting the change.” Having a racially diverse audience has been a big win for the stock car racing series, especially since the hierarchy has been looking to expand the sport for years.

Michael Jordan’s celebrity status adds to the buzz and intrigue surrounding the sport as well. The legendary basketball player is often present on the tracks, providing an added motivation for fans to attend races, and his sheer presence has raised the prestige of the sport. He has also brought about new sponsorships and financial opportunities and helped bring fresh energy into the sport, adding to its overall appeal.