In the twilight of his racing career, Denny Hamlin finds himself wrapped in an intricate paradox—one that intrigues him, even if he doesn’t entirely grasp it. The racing community often raises an eyebrow when up-and-coming drivers land top-tier rides, especially when these opportunities are seemingly handed to them on the back of hefty sponsorships or a hefty check from family. Yet Hamlin’s journey in NASCAR is a testament to both these dynamics and more.

While some newcomers may bring more financial backing than talent, there’s a deeply respected tradition in NASCAR: climbing the ranks through sheer grit and prowess in the lower-tier series. The ascent is considered by many to be a ceremonial induction. Hamlin embodies this ethos to the core. His pride in his roots and his achievements is palpable, and he never hesitates to wear them on his sleeve, whether in the company of competitors, fans, or his own team members. This time as well, he stood proudly alongside none other than the prodigy Michael Jordan.

Michael Jordan’s partner took a cheeky jab at the 23XI driver 

Growing up racing Late Models in Virginia, Hamlin’s career was fueled by his family’s investments—a venture that nearly drained their finances. However, destiny had plans when the late J.D. Gibbs, president of Joe Gibbs Racing, spotted him. The recognition led to Hamlin competing in five truck races and one Xfinity race in 2004 with the team’s backing. His ascendancy didn’t stop there; by 2006, with the support of the Fortune 500 company, FedEx, he transitioned full-time to the Cup. 

With Denny Hamlin storming his way into the top 8 of the playoffs for the Cup Championship, his relentless competitive nature was not just reserved for the track. It amusingly spilled over into a casual game of Connect 4 with the ace driver of Michael Jordan, Tyler Reddick. Although both shared light-hearted banter, a video posted by NASCAR’s official Twitter account showcased Hamlin’s playful dominance. When Tyler Reddick posed the question, “Where will you place the Bill France Cup if you won it?” Hamlin’s clever retort was, “Right at the entrance of 23XI, so you could watch it every time you walk in.”

Regardless of his role as a team owner, Denny Hamlin, the racer, will never relent an inch on the track. And being the boss comes with its perks. When Hamlin further instructed Reddick with a stern, “Don’t get this wrong,” to answer a question correctly, it was evident that #45 had no choice but to comply.

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Denny Hamlin puts Tyler Reddick to the test

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As the video progressed, Denny Hamlin playfully put Tyler Reddick on the spot, challenging him to predict the Championship-4 lineup. With an unwavering focus on the race ahead, Hamlin prodded, “Predict the Championship 4 and don’t get this wrong,” probably hinting at Tyler Reddick not to exclude him in any manner.

Staying true to his composed demeanor, Reddick responded with his predictions, listing, “No. 19 (Martin Truex Jr.), No. 24 (William Byron), No. 11 (Denny Hamlin), and I’d be stupid to not give myself a chance,” seeming a tad uncertain about his own standing in the top-4.

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Now, one can’t help but ponder: How would things have unfolded if Tyler Reddick had dared to exclude his own boss, Denny Hamlin, from his Championship-4 predictions? Perhaps a few more playful jibes would’ve been in order. But, in all fairness, both Hamlin and Reddick seem to have what it takes to secure their spots in the top 4. What’s your take on this?