On This Day

Magic Johnson

Athlete

Earvin "Magic" Johnson Jr. is an American businessman and former professional basketball player. Often regarded as the greatest point guard of all time, Johnson spent his entire career with the Los Angeles Lakers in the National Basketball Association (NBA). After winning a national championship with the Michigan State Spartans in 1979, Johnson was selected first overall in the 1979 NBA draft by the Lakers, then led the team to five NBA championships during their "Showtime" era. Johnson retired abruptly in 1991 after announcing that he had contracted HIV, but returned to play in the 1992 All-Star Game, winning the All-Star MVP Award. He retired again after fellow players protested his return, but returned in 1996, at age 36, to play 32 games for the Lakers before retiring for the third and final time.

Known for his extraordinary court vision, passing abilities, and leadership, Johnson was one of the most dominant players of his era. He received three NBA Most Valuable Player Awards, three NBA Finals MVP awards, nine All-NBA First Team designations, and twelve All-Star Game selections. He led the league in regular-season assists four times.

Notable For

American basketball player and entrepreneur

Magic Johnson's Historical Timeline

  1. Magic Johnson is born

    Magic Johnson athlete, known for american basketball player and entrepreneur, was born on 1960-08-14. Earvin "Magic" Johnson Jr. is an American businessman and former professional basketball player.

  2. Magic Johnson announces he has HIV and retires from the LA Lakers

    Earvin "Magic" Johnson Jr. is an American businessman and former professional basketball player.

  3. LA Lakers debut at the Staples Center with a 103-88 win against the Vancouver Grizzlies; Magic Johnson and Chick Hearn c

    LA Lakers debut at the Staples Center with a 103-88 win against the Vancouver Grizzlies; Magic Johnson and Chick Hearn co-host a ceremony unveiling the Lakers' retired jerseys and championship banners in the new building

Associated Historical Events

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Magic Johnson born?
Magic Johnson was born on 1960-08-14.
What is Magic Johnson known for?
American basketball player and entrepreneur
What historical events involved Magic Johnson?
Magic Johnson was involved in 3 recorded historical events, including Magic Johnson is born, Magic Johnson announces he has HIV and retires from the LA Lakers, LA Lakers debut at the Staples Center with a 103-88 win against the Vancouver Grizzlies; Magic Johnson and Chick Hearn c.

Related Years