Early Life and Education of Magic Johnson: A Complete Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Magic Johnson. From birth to education, explore key events.

Earvin "Magic" Johnson Jr. is a celebrated American businessman and former professional basketball player, widely considered the greatest point guard ever. Drafted first overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 1979 after winning a national championship with Michigan State, he led the Lakers to five NBA championships during the "Showtime" era. Johnson's career faced an abrupt halt in 1991 when he announced he had contracted HIV, leading to his initial retirement. Despite this, he made several comebacks, including winning the All-Star MVP in 1992 and playing 32 games in 1996, before ultimately retiring for good.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

August 14, 1959: Magic Johnson's Birth

On August 14, 1959, Earvin "Magic" Johnson Jr. was born. He would later become a professional basketball player and businessman.

1977: Selection to the McDonald's All-American Team

In 1977, Magic Johnson was named to the inaugural McDonald's All-American team, which played in the Capital Classic.

1978: NCAA Tournament Qualification

In 1978, Michigan State qualified for the NCAA tournament.

1979: NBA Draft and Championship with Michigan State

In 1979, Magic Johnson won a national championship with the Michigan State Spartans and was then selected first overall in the NBA draft by the Los Angeles Lakers.

1979: NCAA Championship Victory

In 1979, Michigan State, led by Magic Johnson, defeated Indiana State to win the NCAA Championship. Johnson was voted Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four.

1981: Birth of Son, Andre Johnson

In 1981, Magic Johnson first fathered a son, Andre Johnson, who was born to Melissa Mitchell.

1984: Friendship Begins

In 1984, Johnson and Bird became close friends during the filming of a Converse shoe advertisement that depicted them as enemies, beginning a long-lasting friendship.

November 7, 1991: Johnson announces retirement after testing positive for HIV

On November 7, 1991, Magic Johnson publicly announced his immediate retirement after testing positive for HIV. He pledged to dedicate his life to battling the disease.

November 1991: Creation of the Magic Johnson Foundation

In November 1991, after announcing his HIV infection, Magic Johnson established the Magic Johnson Foundation to combat HIV, later expanding its goals to other charitable causes.

1991: Buss Supported Johnson After HIV Diagnosis

In 1991, Jerry Buss supported Magic Johnson after he revealed his diagnosis of HIV, and he never hesitated to keep Johnson close to the organization.

1991: First Retirement Announcement

In 1991, Magic Johnson abruptly retired from the NBA after announcing that he had contracted HIV.

1991: Married Earlitha "Cookie" Kelly

In 1991, Magic Johnson married Earlitha "Cookie" Kelly in a small wedding in Lansing.

1992: Appears at Bird's Retirement Ceremony

In 1992, Magic Johnson appeared at Larry Bird's retirement ceremony, describing Bird as a "friend forever".

1992: Appointment to the National Commission on AIDS

In 1992, Magic Johnson joined the National Commission on AIDS, appointed by members of Congress and the Bush Administration. He left after eight months due to disagreements with the White House.

1992: Publication of Autobiography

In 1992, Magic Johnson's autobiography, "Magic Johnson: My Life" was published.

1994: Jud Heathcote Stepped Down as Coach

In 1994, Jud Heathcote stepped down as coach of the Spartans.

June 8, 1995: Jud Heathcote All-Star Tribute Game

On June 8, 1995, Magic Johnson returned to the Breslin Center to play in the Jud Heathcote All-Star Tribute Game, where he led all scorers with 39 points.

1995: Johnson begins intense workouts to help his fight against HIV

During his retirement period, Johnson began intense workouts to help his fight against HIV. He focused on raising his bench press and increasing his weight.

1995: Adopted Daughter Elisa

In 1995, Magic Johnson and his wife, Cookie, adopted a daughter, Elisa.

1999: Speaker at UN World AIDS Day Conference

In 1999, Magic Johnson was the main speaker for the United Nations (UN) World AIDS Day Conference and has served as a United Nations Messenger of Peace.

2006: Endorsement for Governor of California

In 2006, Magic Johnson publicly endorsed Phil Angelides for Governor of California.

2008: Support for Hillary Clinton's Presidential Campaign

In 2008, Magic Johnson supported Hillary Clinton during her presidential campaign.

2010: Endorsement for Barbara Boxer

In 2010, Magic Johnson endorsed Barbara Boxer in her race for re-election to the U.S. Senate.

2011: Frontline Interview

In a 2011 interview with Frontline, Magic Johnson recalled AIDS activist Elizabeth Glaser convincing him to go public about his HIV diagnosis and promising to become the face of the disease to help and educate people.

2012: Endorsement for Barack Obama

In 2012, Magic Johnson endorsed Barack Obama for president.

2013: Support for Wendy Greuel

In 2013, Magic Johnson endorsed and appeared in campaign ads for Wendy Greuel, who was an unsuccessful candidate for Los Angeles mayor.

2013: Death of Jerry Buss

In 2013, Magic Johnson's mentor and close friend, Lakers owner Jerry Buss, passed away from cancer. Johnson spent five hours visiting Buss at the hospital just a few months before his death.