How old was Magic Johnson when he retired from basketball? The legendary point guard announced his retirement from the NBA at the young age of 31. His early exit from the sport was a significant moment in the history of professional basketball, as Johnson’s impact on the game was profound.
Magic Johnson, born Earvin Johnson Jr. on August 14, 1959, entered the NBA as the number one overall pick in the 1979 draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. He quickly established himself as one of the greatest players in the league, leading the Lakers to five NBA championships during his illustrious career. Johnson’s combination of speed, intelligence, and playmaking ability made him a triple-double machine, a rare feat in the history of basketball.
However, Johnson’s retirement in 1991 was not due to any injury or lack of desire to continue playing. On November 7, 1991, at the age of 31, he announced his retirement from basketball to fight the HIV/AIDS virus that had been diagnosed in him just weeks earlier. This stunning revelation shook the basketball world, as Johnson became the first African-American professional athlete to come out as HIV-positive.
Despite his early retirement, Magic Johnson’s impact on the sport of basketball is undeniable. His on-court brilliance and off-court activism have left an indelible mark on the game. During his time with the Lakers, Johnson was instrumental in the team’s success, earning numerous awards and accolades, including five MVP awards and 12 All-Star selections.
Johnson’s retirement also brought attention to the issue of HIV/AIDS, a topic that was often swept under the rug in the 1980s and early 1990s. By openly discussing his diagnosis and using his platform to raise awareness, Johnson helped to destigmatize the disease and promote education about HIV/AIDS.
Today, Magic Johnson remains an influential figure in the world of sports and entertainment. He has since ventured into various business ventures, including the ownership of the Los Angeles Lakers and his eponymous Magic Johnson Foundation, which works to improve the lives of underserved communities. Despite his early retirement from basketball, Johnson’s legacy continues to grow, and he remains a symbol of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity.
