Magic Johnson

Earvin „Magic“ Johnson was a basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers from 1979-1991 and again from 1995-96. Magic Johnson, at 6-9/2,06m, was one of the tallest point guards in history and revolutionized the position. While at the University of Michigan State, he won the NCAA college championship in a matchup against Indiana’s Larry Bird in 1979.

Magic Johnson was the star of the showtime Lakers, a team that won five titles during the 1980s (1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988), had a fierce rivalry with the Boston Celtics and helped to revive fan interest in the NBA. Magic’s flashy, fast-paced and successful style of play together with a broad, inviting smile made him the face of the NBA in the 1980s.

His fame reached beyond the realm of basketball when in 1991 he revealed he had contracted HIV. Johnson made a triumphant appearance at the 1992 NBA All-Star Game, leading the West to a rout and winning the MVP trophy. He was also a member of the Dream Team that destroyed competition at the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona. Magic made a brief comeback in the 1995-96 season before retiring from professional basketball for good and starting a successful career as businessman.

Magic Johnson’s personal accolades include three MVP awards and several assist titles. Johnson popularized the term ‘triple-double’ and in spite of his shortened career ranks third all-time in total assists. In 2002, he was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame.

Created by: Ole