5 Fun Facts About Basketball Legend Magic Johnson
Magic Johnson is one of the NBA’s most iconic figures. He’s famous for his incredible court vision, infectious smile, and championship mentality. But there’s so much more to Earvin “Magic” Johnson than his legendary Lakers career. Let’s explore some fun facts about this basketball legend that showcase why he remains a beloved figure both on and off the court.
He Got His Nickname in High School
You might think Magic earned his nickname during his NBA days, but it actually came much earlier. When Johnson was just 15 years old and playing for Everett High School in Lansing, Michigan, a local sportswriter dubbed him “Magic” after watching him score 36 points, grab 16 rebounds, and dish out 16 assists in a single game. The nickname stuck, and soon everyone was calling him Magic instead of Earvin.
He’s a Three-Time MVP
Johnson’s impact on the NBA was immediate and lasting. Among many other accolades, he won three NBA Most Valuable Player awards during his career (1987, 1989, and 1990), cementing his status among the game’s elite. Nowadays, Johnson’s rookie cards are among his most valuable collector cards because they commemorate the humble beginnings of this future Hall-of-Famer.
He’s a Successful Businessman
After retiring from basketball, Magic didn’t slow down—he shifted his focus to the boardroom. He became a successful entrepreneur and investor, building Magic Johnson Enterprises into a billion-dollar company. His business ventures have included movie theaters, restaurants, and real estate development, particularly in underserved urban communities. He’s also been involved in sports ownership, including a stint as part-owner of the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Dodgers.
His Rivalry With Larry Bird Goes Way Back
The Magic-Bird rivalry is legendary, but it started before either player reached the NBA. Their competition began in college when Johnson’s Michigan State team defeated Bird’s Indiana State squad in the 1979 NCAA Championship game. This matchup was one of the most-watched college basketball games in history and set the stage for their epic battles throughout the 1980s when Magic played for the Lakers and Bird for the Celtics.
He Is a Public HIV Activist
When Magic announced his HIV diagnosis in 1991, it shocked the sports world and changed the conversation about HIV/AIDS forever. Rather than retreating from public life, he became one of the most prominent advocates for HIV awareness and education. His openness about living with HIV helped reduce stigma and showed that the disease could affect anyone, regardless of their status or lifestyle.
Magic Johnson’s influence extends far beyond his five NBA championships and Hall of Fame career. As these fun facts about the basketball legend have shown, he’s a businessman, activist, and cultural icon who continues to inspire people worldwide through his positive attitude and commitment to giving back to communities.
Do you know other cool facts about this all-star? Let us know in the comments!