Michael Jordan recently referred to Denny Hamlin as “a clown” in a playful manner, highlighting their friendship as 23XI Racing continues to thrive. This humorous comment emphasizes the competitive spirit shared between Jordan and Hamlin, as they navigate the dynamic landscape of NASCAR. Jordan’s unique blend of his brand mentality and desire for excellence, alongside Hamlin’s experienced racing skill, propels their team to success. Uncover more about the synergy driving 23XI Racing forward.
Key Highlights
- Michael Jordan humorously called Denny Hamlin “a clown” after his celebration at Martinsville.
- The comment reflects Jordan and Hamlin’s friendship and camaraderie within 23XI Racing.
- Jordan’s playful dig highlights a culture of mutual respect and motivation between the two.
- The interaction underscores Jordan’s and Hamlin’s competitive nature and shared mentality.
- Despite the playful comment, Jordan acknowledges Hamlin’s confidence and achievements.
The Formation of 23XI Racing: A Force in NASCAR
While many might not immediately associate basketball legend Michael Jordan with NASCAR, his involvement in the sport has been nothing short of revolutionary.
In 2020, Jordan joined forces with veteran driver Denny Hamlin to create 23XI Racing. The team quickly established itself as a formidable presence in NASCAR. Within just four full seasons, 23XI Racing achieved notable milestones, including a regular-season championship and reaching the NASCAR Championship 4. This success is a demonstration of the tactical vision and competitive spirit both Jordan and Hamlin bring to the table.
The synergy between Jordan’s relentless pursuit of excellence and Hamlin’s in-depth racing expertise has transformed 23XI Racing into a powerhouse.
Jordan, often seen at the racetracks, not only brings an iconic brand but also a winning mentality that permeates the team. His presence at events like the Goodyear 400 highlights his commitment, even as friendly banter with Hamlin adds a touch of humor to their partnership.
Michael Jordan’s Connection to NASCAR’s Past
Michael Jordan’s connection to NASCAR’s past is both personal and profound, reflecting a deep respect for the sport’s storied history. As Darlington’s throwback weekend unfolded, Jordan expressed his admiration for the legendary Richard Petty’s No. 43 car and its iconic STP design. This affinity for NASCAR’s legacy is rooted in his early racing memories, which he fondly shared with Fox Sports’ Jamie Little.
“I grew up in NASCAR, and my favorite design is obviously the 43. You know, I love the STP.” – Michael Jordan
“If you boo him, that makes him better. If you boo me, that makes me better.”
Michael Jordan is here for #NASCARThrowback Sunday at Darlington and talks with @JamieLittleTV about @DennyHamlin‘s win last week.@Jumpman23 | #NASCARonFS1 pic.twitter.com/bfTnisqWOl
— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) April 6, 2025
Observing the vibrant celebration of racing history from the #23 pit box, Jordan appeared to be deeply engaged with the sport’s traditions. The nostalgic atmosphere seemed to resonate with him, bridging his passion for basketball with a newfound appreciation for NASCAR.
Jordan’s enthusiasm for the sport’s heritage highlights his commitment to honoring its past while shaping its future. In doing so, he not only embraces the legacy of iconic figures like Petty but also contributes to the ongoing narrative of NASCAR.
Pride in Bubba Wallace’s Strong Start to the 2025 Season
As the NASCAR season unfolded with the familiar echoes of its rich history, attention shifted to the promising present, particularly focusing on Bubba Wallace’s impressive performance in 2025.
Michael Jordan, co-owner of 23XI Racing, expressed immense pride in Wallace’s strong start. Despite initial challenges, Wallace found his rhythm, securing two consecutive third-place finishes. This achievement spotlighted not only his driving skill but also the exceptional performance of the #23 car’s pit crew, noted as the fourth-fastest of the season.
“I’m so happy. The only thing that you can ever ask for as an owner and probably as a team is to just have a chance… It’s up to the drivers… Our pit crew is on fire, so it’s putting the race back in their hands.” – Michael Jordan
Jordan’s satisfaction extended beyond individual accolades, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of racing. He praised the pit crew’s precision and efficiency, acknowledging their critical role in Wallace’s success.
As an owner, Jordan highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for his drivers to excel, emphasizing his commitment to fostering a competitive environment. His pride in Wallace’s achievements reflects a deep appreciation for the hard work and dedication within the team.
Michael Jordan’s Playful Dig at Denny Hamlin
Amid the excitement of the 2025 NASCAR season, Michael Jordan added a touch of humor to the mix with his playful jab at fellow 23XI Racing co-owner Denny Hamlin.
After Hamlin’s initial win of the season at Martinsville Speedway, Jordan humorously referred to him as “a clown,” a nod to Hamlin’s exuberant post-race celebration where he unfurled an “11 Against the World” flag.
“He is a clown. But that’s him. That’s Denny.” – Michael Jordan
Jordan’s remark, while humorous, also served to commend Hamlin’s confidence and tenacity.
By playfully teasing Hamlin, Jordan emphasized the unique dynamics within 23XI Racing, where humor and respect coexist.
He acknowledged the shared competitive spirit that both he and Hamlin possess, drawing a parallel to their relentless drive for success.
“He’s a very confident driver. He is a very confident person. His competitive juice is no different than mine. I mean, I love that he’s gotten back to winning.”
“I want him to win a championship so badly because I think he’s earned that because of what he has done for the sport for so long. And he’s gonna grind it out.” – Michael Jordan
The Competitive Nature of Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin
In the world of competitive sports, the spirit of rivalry often fuels greatness, and this is certainly true for Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin. Both icons thrive under strain, channeling negative energy and public perception into powerful performances.
“That’s just the way Denny is. And you know, if you boo him that makes him better. You know, you boo me that makes me better. I mean, that’s just the nature of a good competitor.” – Michael Jordan
Jordan, renowned for his legendary NBA career, famously used perceived slights as motivation. Likewise, Hamlin accepts his role as a polarizing figure in NASCAR, transforming boos and criticism into fuel for his race-day endeavors.
Jordan’s respect for Hamlin’s competitive nature is evident, as he expresses a strong desire for Hamlin to clinch a NASCAR championship. He acknowledges Hamlin’s notable contributions to the sport, noting his impressive record of over 50 wins despite the elusive title.
This shared competitive mentality highlights the deep connection between the two, revealing how their relentless pursuit of excellence not only defines their careers but also inspires admiration and respect among their peers.
News in Brief: Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin Rivalry
As the Goodyear 400 approaches, the dynamic between Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin adds an intriguing layer to 23XI Racing‘s narrative. Jordan, known for his competitive spirit, jokingly called Hamlin a “clown,” highlighting their strong friendship. This playful banter emphasizes their shared commitment to success in NASCAR, with Jordan’s pride in Bubba Wallace’s performance shining through. Together, Jordan and Hamlin are shaping 23XI Racing into a formidable presence, blending competitive drive with a touch of humor.
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