NASCAR star Denny Hamlin received a text from his 23XI Racing co-owner, Michael Jordan, after the team picked up their first Cup Series win of 2025, thanks to Bubba Wallace.

Wallace snapped a 100-race winless streak by winning the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis last Sunday. Having missed the playoffs last year, Wallace has now booked his ticket for NASCAR’s postseason action, whilst also becoming the first Black driver to win a race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The 31-year-old survived a late charge from Hendrick Motorsports’ Kyle Larson, as well as a late rain delay and two overtimes to claim victory. “Oh, my gosh, I’m just so proud of this team,” said Wallace following the win.

“That adrenaline rush is crazy, ’cause I’m coming off that right now – and I’m worn out. It’s unbelievable.

“To win here at the Brickyard, knowing how big this race is, knowing all the noise that’s going on in the background, to set that all aside is a testament to these people here on this 23 team. It’s been getting old right around the cut line (for the playoffs).”

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While Wallace booked his place in NASCAR’s postseason with the win in Indianapolis, his teammate, Tyler Reddick, also looks set to clinch a spot in the playoffs via points.

And speaking after the race, Hamlin, who co-owns 23XI with Jordan and who finished third, admitted he was yet to speak to the legendary NBA player following the team’s first win of 2025, but that he had received a text.

“I have not, no,” said Hamlin when asked if he had spoken to Jordan. “I saw a text, but I haven’t responded.”

Hamlin also told reporters of the win: “I talked about it, it’s the next step for the team.”

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“I always thought this racetrack was always a showcase of driver, team, engine, all the things. It just was. It was a showcase of that.

“This is our first win for the team for the season, our only win. So for it to come for the 23 team while they’re in a battle here for a playoff spot, that’s big for them,” Hamlin added.

“Then for the team, these things are super valuable for us. We hosted a huge activation right there in downtown Indy right next to the Gainbridge Center. We’re doing a lot. We’re doing a lot on and off the racetrack. These things help legitimatize our place in the sport.”