How Magic Johnson Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

How the contributions of Magic Johnson continue to shape the world today.

Earvin "Magic" Johnson Jr. is a celebrated American businessman and former basketball player, widely considered the greatest point guard ever. Drafted first overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 1979 after a national championship with Michigan State, he led the Lakers to five NBA championships during the "Showtime" era. In 1991, Johnson announced his HIV diagnosis and initially retired, though he made a celebrated return at the 1992 All-Star Game. After further controversy, he retired again before briefly returning to the Lakers in 1996, marking his final stint in the NBA.

Sections (6)

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

November 7, 1991: Johnson announces HIV diagnosis and retirement

On November 7, 1991, Magic Johnson announced he had tested positive for HIV and would retire immediately, dedicating his life to battling the disease.

November 1991: Announcement of HIV Infection and Creation of Magic Johnson Foundation

In November 1991, after announcing his HIV infection, Magic Johnson created the Magic Johnson Foundation to help combat HIV.

1992: Johnson competes in Barcelona Olympics

In 1992, Magic Johnson participated in the Barcelona Summer Olympics as part of the "Dream Team," winning a gold medal with the U.S. national team. He used the opportunity to inspire HIV-positive people.

1992: Publication of Autobiography

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

My Life

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1996: 50 Greatest Players in NBA History

In 1996, Magic Johnson was honored as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History.

1996: Named One of the 50 Greatest Players of All Time

In 1996, Magic Johnson was voted as one of the 50 Greatest Players of All Time by the NBA, recognizing his exceptional contributions to basketball.

2002: Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Induction

In 2002, Magic Johnson was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame for his individual career.

2002: Induction into Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

In 2002, Magic Johnson was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, honoring his remarkable career and impact on basketball.

2004: HIV announcement named memorable moment

In 2004, ESPN named Magic Johnson's HIV announcement as the seventh-most memorable moment of the previous 25 years, highlighting its significant impact.

2006: Rated Greatest Point Guard of All Time by ESPN.com

In 2006, ESPN.com rated Magic Johnson as the greatest point guard of all time, acknowledging his superior skills and influence on the game.

2009: Collaboration on 'When the Game Was Ours'

In 2009, Magic Johnson and Larry Bird collaborated with journalist Jackie MacMullan on the non-fiction book "When the Game Was Ours", detailing their on-court rivalry and friendship.

When The Game Was Ours

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2010: Hall of Fame Induction as a Member of the Dream Team

In 2010, Magic Johnson was enshrined into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as a member of the Dream Team.

August 2011: Johnson reflects on early retirement

In August 2011, Johnson stated in an interview that he wished he had not retired after being diagnosed with HIV, revealing the regrets he had about his decision.

2011: Frontline Interview Recalling Promise to Elizabeth Glaser

In a 2011 interview with Frontline, Magic Johnson recalled his promise to AIDS activist Elizabeth Glaser to become the face of the disease and educate people about it.

2019: Receives NBA Lifetime Achievement Award

In 2019, at the NBA Awards, Magic Johnson and Larry Bird jointly received the NBA Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring their significant contributions to basketball.

2021: Selected to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team

In 2021, Magic Johnson was selected to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team, further solidifying his place among basketball legends.

2021: NBA 75th Anniversary Team Selection

In 2021, Magic Johnson was selected to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.

2022: Named 5th Greatest Player in NBA History by The Athletic

In 2022, The Athletic ranked Magic Johnson as the 5th greatest player in NBA history and the highest-ranked point guard, commemorating the NBA's 75th anniversary.

2022: Western Conference Finals MVP Trophy Named After Johnson

In 2022, the NBA began awarding MVPs for the conference finals, with the Western Conference Finals MVP trophy named after Magic Johnson, solidifying his lasting impact on the sport.