Magic Johnson

Magic Johnson at SXSW 2022 (51958828669) (cropped)

Magic Lipofsky

Pat Riley and Earvin "Magic" Johnsonat the Century Plaza (cropped)

File:Magic Johnson argentina.jpg

Magic Johnson argentina

1987 NBA Finals Lipofsky

Earvin Magic Johnson's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

American basketball player and entrepreneur

Earvin "Magic" Johnson Jr. (born August 14, 1959) is an American former professional basketball player and former president of basketball operations of the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Johnson played 13 seasons for the Lakers and was honored as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History in 1996 and as one of the 75 Greatest Players in NBA History in 2021.

Early life

Johnson was born in Lansing, Michigan, to Earvin Sr. and Christine Johnson. He developed a passion for basketball at a young age and attended Everett High School, where he led his team to a state championship. Johnson then attended Michigan State University, where he played for the Spartans and led them to the NCAA Championship in 1979.

Professional career

Johnson was selected first overall in the 1979 NBA draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. He had an immediate impact, winning the NBA Rookie of the Year Award and leading the Lakers to the 1980 NBA Finals, where he was named NBA Finals MVP.

Throughout his career, Johnson was known for his exceptional passing, court vision, and leadership. He won five NBA championships with the Lakers and was named NBA MVP three times. Johnson retired abruptly in 1991 after announcing that he had tested positive for HIV, but he returned to play in the 1992 NBA All-Star Game, where he was named MVP. He briefly returned to the NBA during the 1995-96 season before retiring for good.

Post-playing career

After retiring from basketball, Johnson became a successful entrepreneur, investing in various businesses, including Magic Johnson Enterprises, which has holdings in various industries such as real estate, movie theaters, and restaurants. He has also been involved in numerous philanthropic efforts, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Personal life

Johnson is married to Cookie Johnson, and they have two children, Earvin III (EJ) and Elisa. He also has a son, Andre, from a previous relationship. Johnson has been an advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention since his diagnosis and has worked to reduce the stigma associated with the disease.

Legacy

Magic Johnson is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. His contributions to the game, both on and off the court, have left a lasting impact on the sport and the broader community. He is a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and continues to be a prominent figure in sports and business.

Related pages

• Los Angeles Lakers
• NBA Most Valuable Player Award
• NBA Finals MVP
• HIV/AIDS
• Michigan State University
• Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

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