Brad Daugherty NASCAR Milestone: In an unexpected turn of events, former NBA adversaries Michael Jordan and Brad Daugherty found themselves competing in NASCAR three decades after their basketball showdowns. Daugherty, passionate about racing, stands out as the sole African-American team owner to qualify for NASCAR’s prestigious playoff fray, rivaled only by Jordan. His team, bearing the iconic #43 jersey paying homage to the legendary Richard Petty, epitomizes his deep connection to the sport.
What’s remarkable, however, is how Daugherty, hailing from Black Mountain, North Carolina, outpaced Michael Jordan in this unexpected racing journey.
The triumph of Ricky Stenhouse Jr. at the 2024 Daytona 500 marked Daugherty’s historic win as the first black team owner to conquer this renowned race. Reflecting on this honor in an interview with NASCAR, the retired athlete conveyed his thoughts in a moment of serene elation.
“Initially, I was speechless. There I was, in solitude, realizing the enormity of winning the Daytona 500. I had this conversation with myself, recognizing the significance,” Daugherty revealed. “Then, exhilaration took over. Calls poured infrom NASCAR, the team, everyone. It was an unbelievable moment, a testament to our Harrisburg team’s relentless spirit,” he added.
Days later, Daugherty still grappled with the aftermath of victory, immersed in a deluge of texts and calls from well-wishers. Reveling in the glory of triumph as a team owner in ‘The Great American Race,’ Daugherty found himself amidst a whirlwind of celebration.
Although Michael Jordan’s team took an early lead when partnering with Joe Gibbs Racing and Denny Hamlin, JTG currently boasts 6 NASCAR Cup Series victories compared to 23XI’s 5.
A tweet by nascarman earlier this year highlighted their unique crossover: “Michael Jordan and Brad Daugherty last faced off in the playoffs in May 1993, when the Bulls triumphed over the Cavs in the NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals. 30 years later, they meet again in the NASCAR playoffs.”
Ricky Stenhouse Jr., under Brad Daugherty’s wing, clinched a playoff spot ahead of Bubba Wallace or Tyler Reddick, becoming the first driver this year to secure a playoff berth through his Daytona 500 win.
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Our Reader’s Queries
Does Brad Daugherty still own a NASCAR team?
JTG Daugherty Racing, a team based in Harrisburg and led by principal owner Daugherty, has been a mainstay in NASCAR’s top-tier Cup series for 15 seasons. The team’s driver, Ricky Stenhouse Jr., is a force to be reckoned with on the track.
Why was Brad Daugherty not at Daytona?
Regrettably, Daugherty was absent during the victorious moment at Daytona. He departed prior to the race due to vision complications resulting from a recent eye operation and opted to head back to his residence in Orlando, Florida.
What former NBA player owns a NASCAR team?
Brad Daugherty, a NASCAR team owner based in the local area, is among the two Black owners in the sport. His fellow owner is none other than his former UNC Chapel Hill basketball teammate, Michael Jordan. This year, Daugherty’s groundbreaking achievement has been featured in the latest episode of “Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel” on HBO.
Who was the first black owner to win the Daytona 500?
Brad Daugherty, the owner of a NASCAR racing team, has made history by becoming the first Black principal owner to win the Daytona 500. This remarkable achievement was made possible when his driver, Ricky Stenhouse Jr., won the race in double overtime. It is a momentous occasion for the sport and a testament to the hard work and dedication of Daugherty and his team. This victory will undoubtedly inspire future generations of Black individuals to pursue their dreams and break down barriers in the world of racing.