Magic Johnson

Magic Johnson left a legacy on and off the court (www.photofile.com)

Earvin “Magic” Johnson is a man that deserves respect both on and off the basketball court. He was a leader both to his teammates and the fans that admired him. Most can only wish that they could watch Magic play and dominate his opponents with his superb passing skills and abilities to play both offense and defense. He defied many odds through his battle with HIV while still being able to have an unforgettable career along with well-deserved accomplishments that he can be proud of. Magic Johnson, in my eyes, is definitely one of the greatest basketball players the game has ever seen.

Earvin Johnson was born on August 14, 1959 in a small three bedroom house in Lansing, Michigan. He was born into a family of nine children and his parents were Christine and Earvin Johnson. Christine was a custodian while Earvin worked at a plant. Magic always gave credit to his parents for his success because they both were basketball players themselves. He would sing on street corners and play basketball at the park to pass time.

Magic was known for his hook shot (http://www.hoophall.com/halloffamers/ img/magic_johnson.jpg)

Magic was destined to be great ever since he stepped on the basketball court at Lansing Everett high school. He led his team to win the Michigan State high school championship as a sophomore and averaged 17 points a game. He was given the name “Magic” from a news reporter who had covered all of Earvin’s games. Magic then attended college at Michigan and won the 1979 collegiate championship in a remarkable clash with Indiana State’s Larry Bird who would later battle Magic in the NBA. Magic Johnson was the first overall pick in the 1979 draft to the Los Angeles Lakers. He wore number 32. At 6-9(the tallest point guard in league history) Magic quickly became noticed among his teammates such as Kareem Abdul-Jabar and James Worthy and helped them win the 1980 NBA Championship (first of his five 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988). Magic was highly remembered for his behind the back passes and talent to move the ball around the court. He was a great shooter and was known for his perfect hook shots and 30 point games.

Magic and Michael Jordan on the 1992 Dream Team (http://tiger.towson.edu/users/lellis3/magic_jordan _308_1992_usa.jpg)

Many thought that life was perfect for Magic in terms of his career and his success. However, before the 1991-1992 campaign, he announced that he had tested positive for HIV and would be retiring from the NBA. Much to his fans surprise he showed up for that year’s all-star game and attended the Olympics in Barcelona. Since then, Magic has written many books on HIV and safe sex and has spoke publicly to many organizations to promote safe sex. He has opened a foundation to help those with HIV. Magic was introduced into the 50th all time team in 1997 and was inducted into the hall of fame in 2002. Magic ended his career in 1994 as co-owner of the Lakers and left many accomplishments such as being elected to Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (2002); NBA champion(1980, '82, '85, '87, '88); NBA Finals MVP (1980, '82, '87); NBA MVP (1987, '89, '90); Nine-time All-NBA First Team (1983-91); All-NBA Second Team (1982); 12-time All-Star; All-Star MVP (1990, '92); Olympic gold medalist (1992); One of 50 Greatest Players in NBA History (1996).

Magic was infected with the HIV virus (http://www.sciencecases.org/aids/magic.jpg)

Magic never gave up through everything he faced throughout his career. It seemed that even his disease did not affect the way he played on the court. Magic was a man that loved the game of basketball and did not let anything come in the way of his love. His childhood, career, and accomplishments are not only looked upon by those who also play basketball, but rather those who struggle in life. Magic has affected many people through his example and I will always remember him as my hero.