Magic Johnson’s First Game: A Showstopper that Presaged an Iconic Career
By 247Sports News,
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Calm Nerves, Unbounded Confidence: Magic Johnson’s NBA Debut
“Oh yeah, I’m nervous, man,” Earvin “Magic” Johnson admitted bluntly, yet demonstrated remarkable self-confidence: “You want to be good…
From Lansing to LA: Magic’s Rise to NBA Stardom
modest beginnings
Born in Lansing, Michigan, on August 14, 1959, the future NBA legend was first called “Magic” by a local sportswriter after recording a triple-double at age 15.
College Career and NBA Draft
Johnson chose Michigan State University for college, then became the first overall pick of the 1979 NBA draft by the Los Angeles Lakers.
First Game, First Rivalry, First Championship: Magic’s 1979-1980 Season
historic debut
On October 12, 1979, Magic played his first NBA game, a thriller against the San Diego Clippers, now known as the Los Angeles Clippers, with a buzzer-beating skyhook finish by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
Rising Rivalry; Bird and Magic
Magic’s debut coincided with his long-time rival, Larry Bird, entering the league. Their friendly rivalry pushed the NBA into a new era of popularity.
Rookie of the Year and NBA Finals MVP
Though Bird won the Rookie of the Year award, Magic led the Lakers to their first championship in 18 years and was named the 1980 NBA Finals MVP.
Magic’s Impact: Showtime
Magic and Abdul-Jabbar formed one of the greatest duos in NBA history, winning five championships together in the 1980s.
Magic’s unique handle for the game, intuitive passing, especially his renowned no-look passes, defined the Lakers’ drop-dead gorgeous style of play, “Showtime”.
FAQs
What was Earvin “Magic” Johnson’s first job in the NBA?
Magic Johnson made his NBA debut on October 12, 1979, for the Los Angeles Lakers against the San Diego Clippers.
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Pro Tip
Magic Johnson’s incredible “no-look” passing skillset is his signature move and a cornerstone of the Los Angeles Lakers’ “Showtime” offense.
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247Sports takes you on a journey through time, reliving the brilliant first game of NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson and examining the profound impact his career had on the league.