Magic Johnson, an icon of the City of Angels and a legend for the entire basketball universe, just turned 65. Anyone who follows the sport knows Johnson’s resume as a player. Often considered the best point guard of all time, well-known legends and current players congratulated the LA legend on their social media channels, including former Sixth Man of the Year Jamal Crawford.
Magic gave it his all on the court. A 6’1″ point guard who could not only pass and shoot, but also grab rebounds and defend 7’1″ opponents like any other big man in the league. So what better way to celebrate the legend’s birthday than with a mixtape highlighting all of his plays?
Crawford posted the highlight video on his Instagram account, which shows plays from Magic’s legendary run with the “Show-Time Lakers” in the 80s.
Magic’s highlight video featured his trademark no-look passes between one, two, and even three defenders. He directed traffic as he came down the court, but passed the ball to someone else and still made it a highlight. In the video, Magic even managed a steal while on the court.
Magic was the first of his kind. No one had ever seen a player who could perfectly fill the point guard position at 6’10”. But Johnson did it, night after night.
The five-time NBA champion was not only a great scorer or playmaker, but also an entertainer. His style of play not only earned him the name “Show-Time Lakers” but also ensured full stadiums at home and away games.
Fans flew in from overseas to catch a glimpse of the player who stunned everyone with his magic on the pitch.
Crawford’s caption, “The one and only,” pays homage to Magic in a unique way. Since his retirement, many great point guards have been touted as the “next Magic,” but none have lived up to the hype.
Johnson, who played 13 seasons with the Lakers, won 5 rings during his time in LA. Unfortunately, he had to end his career early due to an HIV diagnosis. He later came back from retirement, but the years without playing did not affect his ability.
Had he not retired, the Lakers would undoubtedly have more banners in their arena and Magic would have more rings on his fingers. Early retirement or not, Magic’s impact was so great that he will always be remembered as one of the best passers in the league.
