Michael Jordan once stared down NASCAR executives in a federal courtroom, but these days he's popping up in text threads on CEO Steve O'Donnell's phone, asking about rookie rules and ways to keep improving 23XI Racing.

O'Donnell says Jordan texts him about testing, competition and Corey Heim's rookie eligibility as the 24-year-old looks to make his full-time Cup Series debut with the Jordan Brand squad in 2027.

The NASCAR CEO sees the questions as proof Jordan cares about the sport, not just his fame within it. It's a big shift from the antitrust fight between Jordan's 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, which ended in a settlement before last Christmas.

Their challenge to NASCAR's charter system forced the sport to answer tough questions before settling. These days seem like water under the bridge as NASCAR's Chase continues for the YellaWood 500 on Sunday.

"I would say from my perspective, fantastic," O'Donnell said of his relationship with Jordan. "He is all in. He's done everything we've asked of him."

The executive was equally emphatic about Jordan's authenticity as a racing enthusiast while speaking with the Daily Mail. O'Donnell believes Jordan's passion for motorsports is as authentic on race day as it appears, and that his desire to see NASCAR grow isn't a self-fulfilling quest.

The NASCAR leader shared that the NBA icon doesn't shy away from asking questions to improve his team, including about testing 23XI's line of Toyotas, and continues his efforts to help Heim run for Cup Series Rookie of the Year.

While the relationship appeared fully repaired, O'Donnell admitted that things had been awkward. Seeing the Pro Basketball Hall of Famer and six-time NBA Champion across a courtroom during the legal fight was surreal. The case revealed NASCAR's power struggles.

The courtroom tension hasn't stopped O'Donnell from appreciating Jordan's contribution to NASCAR and his consistent presence at races for his drivers. Jordan was present for Tyler Reddick's wins at the Daytona 500, COTA, and Kansas Speedway.

Jordan chose to attend NASCAR's All-Star race at Dover Motor Speedway in May instead of the NBA All-Star game. 23XI co-owner Denny Hamlin won the race. 23XI looks to capture its first Cup Series title with Reddick as the lone team driver in contention.

Jordan's team was established in 2020 and has compiled 17 NASCAR Cup Series victories with Reddick, Bubba Wallace, Heim, and Kurt Busch's final win in 2022.