The latest segment of “MJ: Insights to Excellence,” which aired Tuesday on NBC as part of its 2025-26 NBA season coverage, offered a rare window into the mindset of Michael Jordan. Sitting down with Mike Tirico, the six-time NBA champion affirmed a truth that underpinned his entire career: his love of the game was the basis of his legendary status.

In the conversation, Jordan spoke directly to the core of his competitive drive and unparalleled longevity, tracing his success not primarily to business strategy or brand development, but to an unwavering devotion to the sport itself. This devotion, he explained, was so paramount that it was codified in his playing days by the famed “Love of the Game” clause in his contract with the Chicago Bulls.

The “Love of the Game” clause was unique, a testament to Jordan’s influence and commitment. It allowed him to participate in basketball games—from pickup runs in a park to unsanctioned scrimmages—without forfeiting the guaranteed nature of his salary should he sustain an injury.

Jordan expressed pride in the clause, acknowledging that such an allowance is virtually nonexistent in today’s risk-averse, insurance-heavy league. He highlighted that this freedom to play, at any time, was essential to his spirit and continued growth as a player. It was a clear prioritization of court time over corporate caution.

This perspective challenges the modern narrative of professional sports, where concepts like "load management" and the business-first mentality often dominate discussion. Jordan suggested that the pure act of playing basketball was what fueled his excellence, which then, and only then, enabled the global brand that players now seek to emulate.

Jordan noted that the Jordan Brand, with its ubiquitous Jumpman logo, was established based on the work he put in on the basketball court. He did not, as he put it, "put the brand before the work." This sequence is a crucial insight into the foundation of his immense success and cultural footprint.

In drawing a distinction between his era and the present, Jordan offered a subtle critique of the modern approach, suggesting that younger players sometimes struggle to maintain the hunger that defined his generation, especially when wealth and fame are achieved so early. He reiterated that his entire mental approach was centered on his job: being the best basketball player he could be and letting others handle the chips and business aspects.

The enduring cultural power of Michael Jordan is that his personal commitment to excellence remains the gold standard. His conversation with Tirico serves as a potent reminder that while the business of basketball has exploded, the simple, pure love of the game is still the fundamental ingredient for greatness.