In a recent interview at Darlington Raceway, NASCAR Cup Series driver Denny Hamlin discussed the significant role Michael Jordan plays in attracting sponsors to 23XI Racing, a team he co-owns with the iconic NBA legend. Founded in 2020, the team features Bubba Wallace as its first driver in the No. 23 Toyota Camry.
Michael Jordan, renowned for his illustrious basketball career, is a six-time NBA champion with the Chicago Bulls and holds a net worth of an astounding $3.5 billion according to Forbes. With his foray into NASCAR, sponsors from the NBA, like Robinhood, have taken notice. Robinhood, already engaged with NBA teams such as the Memphis Grizzlies, Miami Heat, and Washington Wizards for the 2024-25 season, is extending its reach to NASCAR.
Denny Hamlin elaborated on how Jordan’s unparalleled fame draws sponsors to 23XI Racing, commenting on the planned involvement of Robinhood in supporting Bubba Wallace and development driver Corey Heim during select races throughout the 2025 season. Reports indicate that Heim’s No. 67 car will showcase Robinhood’s neon livery at Kansas Speedway on May 11.
Jordan’s influence isn’t limited to racing. He has also been involved with the Charlotte Hornets in the NBA and a range of business ventures. His engagements with brands such as Nike, Hanes, and Gatorade have expanded his impact beyond basketball. Bubba Wallace has remarked on Jordan’s visits to Airspeed, 23XI Racing’s new facility, further highlighting the strong involvement of the NBA legend in the sport.
As Bubba Wallace heads into his eighth full season as a Cup Series driver, anticipation builds for his upcoming race, scheduled for Sunday, April 6, at Darlington Raceway. This event will broadcast on Fox Sports 1 from 3 pm ET, with radio updates provided by MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
The collaboration between Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan has undoubtedly created waves in the NASCAR community, showcasing how Jordan’s celebrity status translates into tangible benefits for 23XI Racing. This partnership not only strengthens NASCAR’s connection with wider audiences but also paves the way for further sponsorship opportunities.
