The life of former NBA champion and star point guard, Earvin Magic Johnson, is filled with stories of success. Born in Lansing, Michigan in 1959, Magic was the sixth of nine children. He displayed a tremendous talent for the game of basketball from an early age, and at 15, he enrolled at Everett High School, where he led the school to the state basketball championship.
Magic left high school after his junior year and went on to play for the Michigan State Spartans. Magic quickly made a name for himself when he helped lead the team to the NCAA championship. His remarkable passing and ball-handling abilities allowed him to make the game look effortless.
In 1979, Magic Johnson was selected first overall in the NBA draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. Together with fellow hall-of-famer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic guided the team to five NBA championships. He quickly rose to fame, becoming one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
Magics legacy, however, goes far beyond the court. Magic was determined to use his influence to make an impact on the world. He developed the Magic Johnson Foundation to help struggle, at-risk and inner-city youth with educational and recreational programs. He also opened movie theaters and restaurants to provide better employment and leisure opportunities to his communities.
In addition to his philanthropic work, Magic also became one of the most successful athletes of all time. After his retirement from basketball, he has become an entrepreneur who sits at the helm of several successful business enterprises.
In 1991, Magic made a shocking revelation that he was HIV-positive. But rather than focus on his own struggles, he used the experience to help raise awareness of the disease and its potential eradication. He has since become one of the most visible advocates for those living with HIV and AIDS.
Today, Magic Johnson is an absolute testament to the power of determination, hard work and courage. He has proven that despite difficult and tragic circumstances, success is definitely attainable. He has also proved that no career or dream is out of reach. His amazing talent, determination and resilience are qualities that should be admired and appreciated.
