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NBA legends Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Sean “Diddy” Combs. Photo credits: Imagn

'Combs Considers Himslef To Be Jordan': Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant Catches Strays In Diddy’s Trial, With Both Players Names Used As Aliases In Rapper’s Alleged Sex Parties

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Dan Agulto | Last updated Jun 12, 2025 8:16 AM ET

Michael Jordan’s name made an unexpected appearance this week in the Sean “Diddy” Combs federal trial. A woman identified as “Jane,” testifying in the rapper’s ongoing sex-trafficking and racketeering case, claimed that Diddy referred to himself as “Michael Jordan” during disturbing private encounters.

According to a woman using the pseudonym “Jane,” who is testifying against Combs in his ongoing sex-trafficking and racketeering conspiracy case, the music executive allegedly liked to be called “Michael Jordan” during sexual encounters.

“A male escort they frequently hired was, to Combs, ‘Shaquille O’Neal.’ Jane was compared and labeled ‘Kobe Bryant.’ Combs considered himself to be ‘Jordan,’” the report stated, citing Jane’s sworn testimony.

Jane testified that Combs forced her to take part in degrading sexual acts with male escorts for his own pleasure. Her revelations came during the 24th day of testimony in a trial that has shaken both the entertainment industry and the public.

On Tuesday, Combs’ defense team grilled Jane during cross-examination, attempting to challenge the consistency and credibility of her account. But her Jordan-Bryant-Shaq comparison has already become one of the more bizarre—and headline-grabbing—moments of the high-profile trial.

Michael Jordan is coming back to the spotlight as he joins NBC

While his name surfaced in the most unlikely of courtrooms this week, Michael Jordan has his own plans for a high-profile comeback—this time as a contributor for NBC Sports.

Michael Jordan's Son Marcus Jordan Tributes Mom Juanita Vanoy On Black History Month 3 Nov 9, 2024; Avondale, Arizona, USA; 23XI Racing team owner Michael Jordan during qualifying for the Cup Series championship race at Phoenix Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

With NBC reclaiming NBA broadcasting rights for the 2025–26 season, the network confirmed Jordan will be part of their on-air team in some capacity. Details are still under wraps, but according to Puck’s John Ourand, Jordan’s contributions are expected to be pre-taped, though nothing’s official yet.

“Michael’s legacy both on and off the court speaks for itself,” NBC Sports president Rick Cordella said in a statement. “We’re incredibly proud to have him join our coverage.”

Oct 27, 2024; Homestead, Florida, USA; 23XI owner Michael Jordan celebrates after his driver NASCAR Cup Series driver Tyler Reddick (not pictured) won the Straight Talk Wireless 400 at Homestead-Miami Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images

ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith gave fans a taste of what to expect during his appearance on the Patrick Bet-David podcast:

“Let me tell you something about Michael Jordan: He’s going to be brutally honest, I can assure you of that,” Smith said. “He ain’t trying to hurt nobody’s feelings. He ain’t trying to be insulting, but he’s going to tell you what’s going on.”

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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