Tyler Reddick’s historic start to the NASCAR Cup Series season has been widely attributed to Denny Hamlin, recognized as the architect behind 23XI Racing’s dominant run. As Reddick clinched his third straight win at Circuit of the Americas, the team’s unprecedented achievement has underscored Hamlin’s critical role, especially as NASCAR witnesses a shift in competitive dynamics.
Reddick Achieves Historic Three-Peat Amid Team Effort
Arriving at the Circuit of the Americas, Tyler Reddick faced immense pressure as he sought to become the first driver in premier NASCAR history to win the initial three races of a season. Piloting the No. 45 Toyota for 23XI Racing—a team co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and veteran driver Denny Hamlin—Reddick delivered a commanding performance that propelled him into the record books. The feat also marked a significant moment for Michael Jordan, who celebrated yet another victory on pit road alongside his star driver and team personnel.
Reflecting on the team’s achievements, Michael Jordan discussed the pivotal role played by Denny Hamlin in assembling the foundation of 23XI’s success. Giving insight into the collaboration behind the scenes, Jordan placed the credit firmly with his co-owner:
“I’m proud of the team that we put together. Denny, I’m pretty sure, feels the same way as I do. I think a lot of credit goes to him because he’s the mastermind behind finding Tyler and putting together Billy Scott and all that.” — Michael Jordan, Fox Sports.
Hamlin’s Leadership Credited for Assembling Winning Team
Jordan’s praise emphasized that while he backs the team financially and brings his competitive spirit, the strategic decisions and day-to-day leadership fall to Hamlin. Hamlin paired crew chief Billy Scott with Reddick, forging a partnership that has yielded immediate results. The 23XI Racing team’s swift ascent has unsettled NASCAR’s traditional balance of power, as they have now claimed the opening three races of the season—an achievement unmatched in NASCAR’s 77-year history. Sports analyst Joe Pompliano underscored the milestone, highlighting its rarity and significance.
“Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing has won the first three races of the NASCAR season — the first time that has ever happened in NASCAR’s 77-year history.” — Joe Pompliano
The excitement following each win has brought renewed attention to both Hamlin’s leadership and Reddick’s execution. Michael Jordan further clarified the division of roles in the organization:
“Look, I just put up the money. I’m just a competitor, but I think Denny has done an unbelievable job in terms of helping build this team. I think the team has done a good job in just taking our leadership and going out and winning. That’s what it’s about, winning.” — Michael Jordan
A New Chapter in NASCAR’s Balance of Power
Jordan emphasized that 23XI Racing’s performance signals a major shift in NASCAR’s competitive landscape. The veteran NBA champion described the team’s three-peat as a symbol of changing times, with 23XI now directly challenging the established elite. Jordan acknowledged the unique pressures facing Reddick entering the weekend, especially as widespread expectations mounted for a possible third consecutive win.
“Time for change. Time for change, and the guys feel the same thing. Tyler came in with the most pressure, I guess. Everybody expected him, or he had the chance to win three in a row. That’s the hardest one to win. He kept to his strategy, and man, the guys put together a great car.” — Michael Jordan
Jordan also credited crew chief Billy Scott for his race strategy, expressing both pride and relief as Reddick withstood challenges, particularly from Shane van Gisbergen in the final laps:
“I think Billy [Scott] did an unbelievable job in calling the race, and Tyler did a good job. He beat some good competition. When you see SVG coming back there, you get a little nervous. But I think he had him covered pretty much the whole day.” — Michael Jordan
What Reddick’s Triumph Means for 23XI and NASCAR
The recent string of victories has placed Reddick and 23XI Racing firmly at the center of NASCAR’s championship conversation. The synergy—stemming from Hamlin’s leadership, Reddick’s ability under pressure, and Billy Scott’s tactical expertise—suggests that 23XI is prepared to consistently challenge the sport’s traditional powerhouses. The ongoing season is expected to further test this new competitive equilibrium. Observers and fans are keenly watching to see whether Reddick and 23XI can maintain their momentum and reshape NASCAR’s hierarchy for the rest of the year. The team’s early dominance, orchestrated by Denny Hamlin’s NASCAR mastermind approach, has already left a lasting impression on the sport’s landscape.
Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing has won the first three races of the NASCAR season — the first time that has ever happened in NASCAR’s 77-year history.pic.twitter.com/vAFW1X3OVX
— Joe Pompliano (@JoePompliano) March 2, 2026
