Magic Johnson
Earvin “Magic” Johnson Jr. is an American businessman and former professional basketball player, widely regarded as one of the greatest point guards in basketball history. Johnson’s illustrious career in the National Basketball Association (NBA) spanned 13 seasons, predominantly with the Los Angeles Lakers. He was instrumental in leading the Lakers to five NBA championships during their “Showtime” era. Johnson’s career was marked by his abrupt retirement in 1991 after announcing he had contracted HIV, but he made a notable return to play in the 1992 All-Star Game, winning the All-Star MVP Award.
Johnson’s achievements in the NBA are extensive and include three NBA MVP Awards, three NBA Finals MVP Awards, and twelve All-Star game appearances. He was known for his exceptional skills in passing and playmaking, leading the league in regular-season assists four times. Johnson is also the NBA’s all-time leader in average assists per game, both in the regular season and playoffs. His participation in the 1992 United States men’s Olympic basketball team, known as “The Dream Team,” which won the Olympic gold medal in Barcelona, further cemented his legacy in the sport.
Throughout his career, Johnson collaborated with numerous key figures in basketball, including a notable rivalry and friendship with Boston Celtics star Larry Bird. He played against Bird in the 1979 NCAA finals and in three NBA championship series. Johnson’s impact on the game extended beyond his playing career, as he was honored as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History in 1996 and selected to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame twice, once for his individual career and again as a member of the “Dream Team.”
Beyond his basketball career, Johnson has been a successful entrepreneur and advocate for HIV/AIDS prevention and safe sex. He has been involved in various business ventures, including part-ownership of the Lakers and serving as the team’s president of basketball operations. Johnson is also a founding member of Guggenheim Baseball Management, the managing entity of the MLB’s Los Angeles Dodgers, and holds stakes in other sports franchises. His business acumen has led to significant contributions in urban development and various philanthropic efforts.