Ten fun facts about Magic Johnson

1. Prodigy Becomes NBA Champion

Magic Johnson was a basketball prodigy, winning championships in high school and college before being selected first overall in the 1979 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. Johnson's selection marked the beginning of a legendary career, as he went on to become one of the most successful players in NBA history, winning five championships with the Lakers and three MVP awards.

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2. A Rookie's Impact

Magic Johnson made an incredible impact in his rookie season, winning a championship and the NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award. He continued to dominate the court throughout the 1980s, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to four more championships. His impressive career earned him a place in the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2002.

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3. One of the Greatest Basketball Players of All Time

Magic Johnson is one of the greatest basketball players of all time, and his impressive record of assists is a testament to that. He led the league in regular-season assists four times, and holds the NBA's all-time record for average assists per game, at an incredible 11.2. Johnson's ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates was unparalleled, and his legacy as a playmaker will live on for years to come.

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4. One of the most decorated players in NBA history

Magic Johnson is one of the most decorated players in NBA history, having achieved an impressive list of accolades throughout his career. He was named MVP of the NBA three times, appeared in nine NBA Finals, was selected to twelve All-Star games, and was nominated for the All-NBA First and Second Teams a total of ten times. His accomplishments are a testament to his skill and dedication to the game of basketball.

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5. Magic Johnson's All-Stars Play Exhibitions Around the World

Magic Johnson, the legendary NBA player, retired from the league in 1992 and decided to take his talents on the road. He formed the Magic Johnson All-Stars, a barnstorming team that traveled around the world playing exhibition games. The team was made up of former NBA players, and they played in countries such as China, the Philippines, and France. Johnson's team was a huge success, and they were even invited to the White House to meet President Bill Clinton. The Magic Johnson All-Stars were a great way for Johnson to stay connected to the game he loved, and to share his passion with fans around the world.

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6. The Legendary "Dream Team" Player

Magic Johnson was a part of the legendary "Dream Team" that won the Olympic gold medal in 1992. This team was made up of some of the greatest basketball players of all time, including Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, and Charles Barkley. Johnson was a key contributor to the team's success, providing leadership and a steady hand on the court. His presence was a major factor in the team's victory, and his performance in the Olympics cemented his legacy as one of the greatest basketball players of all time.

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7. Magic Johnson inducted into Basketball Hall of Fame

Magic Johnson was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2002, an honour that recognizes his immense contributions to the sport. Johnson's career spanned 13 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, during which time he won five NBA championships, three MVP awards, and was named an All-Star 12 times. His impact on the game was so great that he was one of the first players to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of basketball players.

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8. ESPN names Magic Johnson the Greatest NBA Point Guard of All Time

In 2007, ESPN rated Magic Johnson as the greatest NBA point guard of all time, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Johnson's career spanned 13 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, during which he won five NBA championships, three MVP awards, and was selected to the All-Star team 12 times. His impact on the game of basketball was immense, and his influence on the sport is still felt today.

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9. 50 Greatest Players in NBA History: Magic Johnson

In 1996, Magic Johnson was honored as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History, a prestigious list that recognizes the most influential and successful players in the history of the National Basketball Association. Johnson's career accomplishments, including five NBA championships, three MVP awards, and twelve All-Star selections, made him a shoo-in for the list. His impact on the game of basketball, both on and off the court, has been immense and his legacy will continue to live on for generations to come.

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10. Advocate for HIV/AIDS Prevention and Safe Sex

Since his retirement from the NBA in 1991, Magic Johnson has been a tireless advocate for HIV/AIDS prevention and safe sex. He has also become an entrepreneur, philanthropist, broadcaster, and motivational speaker. Johnson has used his platform to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and to encourage people to practice safe sex. He has also established the Magic Johnson Foundation, which provides support to underserved communities and those affected by HIV/AIDS. Additionally, Johnson has been a broadcaster for the NBA on TNT and a motivational speaker, inspiring people to reach their goals and dreams.

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