Days after the Daytona 500 celebration clip sparked debate, Tyler Reddick addressed what NBA fans had been arguing about nonstop.
The controversy centered on Michael Jordan’s interaction with Reddick’s son, Beau, during the post-race festivities. Some online viewers questioned the optics. Reddick didn’t.
“From my perspective, I got to know Michael and his family very well… I don’t see what other people see when it comes to this,” Reddick said. “I put that off to the side and just think about the look on that face and the whole family and this whole group.”
That clarification shifted the tone for many NBA fans.
@SObaskii posted, “Finally, a dad not soaked in woke ideology. Most of you aren’t loved at home, that’s why you called MJ a pedo.”
Finally, a dad not soaked in woke ideology. Most of you aren’t loved at home, that’s why you called MJ a pedo
— Steve🔧 (@SObaskii) February 19, 2026
@cryptiq0 wrote, “MJ always intense. but that’s a moment that kid will never forget.”
@Erhiga11 added, “People just want to make issues and controversy where there is none. It is Good he spoke out..”
Reddick’s win at Daytona International Speedway marked the first Daytona 500 title for 23XI Racing — a milestone that came after months of legal tension with NASCAR.
“Literally can’t stop winning”: NBA fans celebrate Michael Jordan’s Daytona 500 win
Beyond the controversy, NBA fans focused on the bigger picture: Jordan adding another championship to his résumé.
During the offseason, 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports battled NASCAR in court. The case ended in a settlement granting teams “evergreen charters,” securing long-term stability for all 36 organizations. Winning the sport’s biggest race shortly after made the moment feel even larger.
@OnyxOdds posted, “Michael Jordan: NCAA Champion, NBA Champion, Olympic Champion, NASCAR Champion, Space Jam Champion, Presidential Medal of Freedom. Literally can’t stop winning”
@Mass_deed added, “Seeing Jordan this hyped proves he’s just wired to celebrate championships, no matter the sport.”
Not everyone moved on from the earlier clip. @JNova_21 commented, “So hype he’s pinching kids asses!!”
Still, with Reddick publicly dismissing the concerns, many NBA fans shifted back to what they know best — celebrating Jordan’s ability to stack wins, even outside basketball.
