Magic Johnson

Earvin Johnson Jr., better known as Magic Johnson, is a former professional basketball player widely referred to as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history. He earned the nickname “Magic” during his high school years for his exceptional ball-handling and playmaking abilities.

Johnson’s basketball career began in high school where he led his team to a state championship in 1977. He continued his success at Michigan State University, guiding the Spartans to an NCAA Championship victory over Indiana State in 1979. Following his sophomore year, Johnson declared for the NBA Draft and was selected first overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 1979.

During his 13-year NBA career, all with the Lakers, Johnson won five NBA Championships, and was a three-time NBA Most Valuable Player, three-time NBA Finals MVP, 12-time NBA All-Star and named All-NBA First Team nine times.

After retiring from professional basketball before the 1991-92 NBA season, Johnson announced that he tested positive for HIV and would retire immediately. He returned in 1996 to play 32 games for the Lakers before retiring again.

Outside of basketball, Johnson became a successful businessman and philanthropist. He founded Magic Johnson Enterprises in 1987, focusing on economic empowerment in underserved communities. His other business ventures have included movie theaters, Starbucks franchises and investments in various sports teams, including ownership stakes in the Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Sparks, Los Angeles FC and the Washington Commanders.

In 1991, Johnson married Earlitha “Cookie” Kelly. The couple have two children: a son, Earvin III (born in 1992), and daughter Elisa, who was adopted in 1995. Johnson has an older son, Andre (born in 1981), with ex Melissa Mitchell.