Michael Jordan has become a familiar figure at NASCAR events, attracting considerable media attention whenever he enters the garage area. While Jordan doesn’t grant interviews regularly, the recent success of Tyler Reddick, who secured three consecutive victories for 23XI Racing, has increased demand for his commentary from outlets outside the usual stock car circles, such as ESPN. This highlights a growing intersection between Jordan’s influence in basketball and his expanding role in NASCAR.
Jamie Little Established as Jordan’s Preferred Interviewer
Within the FOX broadcast team, it is understood that when Michael Jordan agrees to an interview, Jamie Little is his preferred correspondent. Producers have recognized that Little holds the key to securing Jordan’s on-camera remarks, as he tends to limit access to those he trusts. This dynamic became particularly clear after Reddick’s win at the Daytona 500, when Jordan specifically requested Little for his post-race interview.
Building Trust Between Jordan and Little
Jamie Little disclosed in a discussion with Front Office Sports that Jordan, a co-owner of 23XI Racing, requested her for interviews following significant racing milestones. During his NBA career, Jordan often relied on a single reporter for consistent access, and he appears to have extended that approach into NASCAR coverage with Little.
Little reflected on this relationship, stating,
“He takes a reporter, he trusts them, that’s who he gives information to, that’s who he gives access to. I’m very humbled and honored I’ve become that person.”
The initial connection between the two was made in June 2021 at Sonoma Raceway. Little overheard Jordan mentioning her knowledge of NASCAR, which led her to introduce herself and engage him in conversation about the sport. This interaction helped establish a foundation of mutual respect and trust that paved the way for future interviews.
Growing Interview Opportunities and Unique Access
By 2026, Jamie Little has conducted over six on-camera interviews with Jordan, a number that rivals or even surpasses his appearances as a special NBA contributor for NBC. Access to Jordan was more limited two years ago, but after Reddick’s Talladega win, Little seized the opportunity to approach Jordan in Victory Lane, receiving a warm embrace and his agreement to be interviewed on camera. Since then, she has maintained a consistent pattern of gaining his approval before live interviews, often conducting informal “vibe checks” to ensure Jordan is willing to speak.
Reaching Wider Audiences Through Jordan’s Interviews
The impact of Little’s interviews with Jordan extends beyond NASCAR’s usual fanbase. She observed that national media outlets and platforms outside of traditional stock car racing began highlighting Jordan’s interviews, reaching audiences interested in the Chicago Bulls legend and his broader legacy. This crossover has amplified NASCAR’s profile, fueled by Jordan’s involvement as both a team owner and a media presence.
Michael Jordan’s Influence on NASCAR’s Popularity
Jordan’s participation in the sport carries significant weight beyond the confines of the track. His presence brings new attention from fans who follow his career and brand, creating fresh interest in NASCAR. When he appears at events, Jordan not only shifts media focus but also helps expand the sport’s reach, signaling a meaningful collaboration between his legendary status and NASCAR’s evolving appeal.
Fox’s Jamie Little on becoming Michael Jordan’s go-to NASCAR interviewer: ‘I’m very humbled and honored’ https://t.co/sKAFAr6Gv2 pic.twitter.com/gqsphiht3h
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) March 3, 2026
