Athletes are often confined to their sports but some, like Denny Hamlin, know that sportsmanship transcend boundaries. For nearly two decades, Denny Hamlin became a constant presence at the top of NASCAR’s elite. Despite his talent, he has yet to win a Cup Series championship in his career. 2010 stands out for Denny Hamlin as one of his bitterest seasons. After a career year that saw him win eight races, Hamlin led the points standings heading into the season’s final two races. Penultimately, disaster struck at Phoenix.

Hamlin’s poor strategy call left him vulnerable, and his nerves got the best of him at Homestead-Miami. A spin early on in the race resulted in his team being unable to recover. The 2024 NASCAR season has been full of twists and turns but it also offered a surprising off-the-track highlight. For Denny Hamlin, one of NASCAR’s elite drivers, the off-season called for a different kind of ‘golf’ competition. In a casual game with NBA legend Michael Jordan, Hamlin thought he had his fellow competitor “dead to rights.”

Denny Hamlin’s golf stories show there’s no off-season for banter

As the NASCAR season winds down, fans can expect a busy off-season. The sport is gearing up for major changes in 2025, including the formal launch of a $7.7 billion media-rights deal, the debut of a bracket-style in-season tournament, and the first-ever Cup Series race outside of the U.S. in Mexico City. However, for Denny Hamlin, the off-season doesn’t just involve the usual meetings and planning.

For the No. 11 Toyota driver, a part of the downtime is on the golf course. One of the more memorable moments of this off-season came when Hamlin faced off against none other than Michael Jordan at the Silverleaf Golf Club. Hamlin, in his Actions Detrimental with Denny Hamlin podcast, recalls how he thoroughly dominated the game—until the last three holes. “I had Michael dead to rights on Thursday,” Hamlin quotes, presuming his early success. “We played Silverleaf, smashed him all day, and then, you know what happens—press last three holes. He pars out. I do not.”

Now, as if Jordan’s late-game comeback wasn’t enough, Hamlin would find himself astounded by the sheer athleticism of Ahmad Rashad, a former NFL wide receiver and current sportscaster. Known for his role in broadcasting, Rashad’s transition from football to TV has kept him in the spotlight. But it’s not just his career after football that commands attention; his ability to keep pace with younger athletes is what has truly impressed Hamlin.

Despite being 74 years old, Rashad showcased an incredible level of fitness and golf skill. According to Denny Hamlin, Rashad was hitting drives that almost matched the distance of Dwight Freeney, a former NFL defensive end known for his explosive speed.

“You know what was the most impressive thing? Ahmad Rashad is 74 years old, and he hits the ball 280, 290 yards,” Hamlin exclaims in total disbelief. “It’s unbelievable. I mean, it was amazing to see. And this guy, he’s not sprinting to the tee box. He’s walking—taking his time—but he’s still smashing the ball.” If he had to make a guess, Rashad’s fitness routine includes biking 20 miles a day and meditation. Despite being 74, Rashad’s physical capabilities allowed him to compete alongside players much younger than him, earning Hamlin’s full respect.

Jordan’s comeback came out of nowhere. The notoriously competitive NBA icon turned the game around by parring out, leaving Hamlin frustrated but also impressed. That’s when Steve Letarte, a former NASCAR crew chief and current commentator, also had his take on the art of competitive golf. Letarte reminisces about a round with Dale Jarrett, where despite a frustrating day—complete with Jarrett tossing his clubs in frustration—he still made a hole-in-one and birdied another par-3. But Jarrett’s day ended with an 87, a result that didn’t sit well with him.

Michael Jordan’s 23XI racing seeks to secure 2025 season

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As we look to the future, Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing team is preparing for what could be a monumental 2025 season. However, Jordan’s team faces a significant legal challenge, as 23XI Racing, along with Front Row Motorsports, takes NASCAR to the U.S. Court of Appeals over antitrust concerns. These teams are contesting NASCAR’s charter system, which could have a major impact on their ability to compete in 2025.

At the center of the legal battle, Jordan’s 23XI Racing—which currently fields drivers Tyler Reddick and Bubba Wallace—is challenging the new charter rules that could limit their entry into future races. As they await the outcome of their legal fight, 23XI’s future in NASCAR remains uncertain, leaving the offseason filled with anticipation and high stakes.

In order to compete without being bound by the new charter system, Jordan’s team is hoping the Court of Appeals will overturn the decision. It will be represented by antitrust lawyer Jeff Kessler in the case. In the coming months, 23XI’s legal fight could have a ripple effect, affecting the landscape of independent teams in NASCAR while also affecting Jordan and Front Row’s 2025 season. With uncertainty surrounding their position in NASCAR, 23XI and Front Row could have a highly impacted offseason.

The legal battle between NASCAR and 23XI Racing could reshape the sport’s future, making this off-season far from quiet for Jordan’s team. But if anyone knows how to rise to the occasion, it’s Michael Jordan.