Following the March 1, 2026, DuraMax Texas Grand Prix Powered by RelaDyne race at COTA, former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III publicly recognized 23XI Racing co-owner Michael Jordan and driver Tyler Reddick as the emerging stars in the world of NASCAR. Griffin III highlighted Reddick’s dominant performance and Jordan’s growing influence within the sport.
Driving the #45 Toyota Camry XSE, Tyler Reddick secured his second consecutive pole position for the event by recording the fastest lap with a time of 97.76 seconds and a top speed of 88.38 mph. Reddick controlled the race by leading 58 out of 95 laps, setting the stage for a historic victory on the Circuit of the Americas track.
Reddick managed to hold off Shane van Gisbergen of Trackhouse Racing in a closely contested finish, claiming his third straight season-opening win—an unprecedented accomplishment in NASCAR. This streak underscores Reddick’s rising prominence in the sport. Reflecting on these achievements, Robert Griffin III stated on X:
“Michael Jordan and Tyler Reddick are the new faces of NASCAR.”
Background and Growth of 23XI Racing
Founded in 2021 by basketball legend Michael Jordan and Joe Gibbs Racing driver Denny Hamlin, 23XI Racing debuted in the NASCAR Cup Series at the Daytona 500. Since then, the team has earned 12 race wins and nine pole positions. The current roster includes Tyler Reddick in the #45 Toyota Camry, Bubba Wallace behind the wheel of the #23 Camry, and Riley Herbst piloting the #35 Monster Energy-sponsored car.
Michael Jordan Praises Tyler Reddick After Atlanta Victory
After Tyler Reddick’s recent win at the EchoPark Speedway in Atlanta, Michael Jordan offered glowing praise for the driver while acknowledging Bubba Wallace’s challenging finish. During an interview with FOX Sports, Jordan emphasized the efforts from both drivers and teams throughout the race.
Starting from pole position, Reddick showed strong performance, while teammate Bubba Wallace began the race in ninth place. Wallace managed to overtake Reddick and finished second in the first stage, then secured the stage two victory.
However, late-race developments shifted the outcome. With two laps remaining, Wallace moved to the outside lane, letting Carson Hocevar take the lead briefly after some contact between the drivers. Ultimately, Tyler Reddick reclaimed the front and won the race, marking his second triumph of the season.
Jordan remarked on Reddick’s performance:
“I mean, really, I can’t say anything. Tyler did an unbelievable job. I mean, the team, both teams, did an unbelievable job. And look, I wanted one of them to win. You know, I feel bad for Bubba, obviously, because he had an unbelievable day, but Tyler drove his a** off. And I’m very happy with Tyler.”
Reddick finished just 0.164 seconds ahead of Toyota teammate Chase Briscoe, while Wallace’s aggressive move caused him to drop back to eighth place. Riley Herbst, the third 23XI Racing driver, completed the race in 33rd position.
Tyler Reddick’s Rising Influence in NASCAR’s Competitive Landscape
Tyler Reddick’s achievements this season signal a significant shift in NASCAR’s competitive dynamics. His record-breaking three consecutive season-opening wins demonstrate not only skill and consistency but also an ability to perform under intense pressure. Meanwhile, Michael Jordan’s role as co-owner continues to bring fresh attention and credibility to 23XI Racing, motivating the team’s drivers and enhancing their presence in the sport.
As the NASCAR season progresses, all eyes will remain on Reddick and 23XI Racing to see if they can maintain this momentum and challenge for championships. Their recent victories have ignited excitement among fans and industry insiders, making Reddick one of the most anticipated drivers to watch on the grid this year.
Michael Jordan and Tyler Reddick are the new faces of NASCAR.
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) March 2, 2026
