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LOS ANGELES, CA Spring, 1991 –– Los Angeles Lakers Magic Johnson, right, is guarded by Michael Jordan of the Chicago Bulls in the 1991 NBA Finals in Los Angeles. (Photo by Al Seib/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CA Spring, 1991 –– Los Angeles Lakers Magic Johnson, right, is guarded by Michael Jordan of the Chicago Bulls in the 1991 NBA Finals in Los Angeles. (Photo by Al Seib/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
One of the biggest events in the history of the NBA was Magic Johnson announcing his retirement from the game. This came after the Lakers legend tested positive for HIV. His announcement sent headlines around the world with NBA star, Michael Jordan, one of the millions who were shocked.
Talking during an interview, the Bulls legend shared what he felt when Magic made the announcement. According to the 6 time NBA champion, he was driving home during the announcement and he almost drove off the road!
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Michael Jordan during 2006 Jordan All-American Classic at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York, United States. ***Exclusive*** (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)
Moreover, Jordan made a call to Magic, and Magic was calmer than Jordan! When asked whether Johnson had tested for HIV or not, he revealed that some insurance policies required him to undergo such tests.
Interestingly enough, MJ felt that Magic wasn’t only the promiscuous athlete in the league. Jordan said, “One of your prime personalities has gone public and said he got it through promiscuity. He wasn’t the only promiscuous athlete. I’m pretty sure he won’t be the last.”
Johnson was diagnosed with HIV prior to the 1991-92 season, which forced him to re-think his future. In a public statement, Johnson announced that he will be retiring. However, he made a phenomenal comeback as he led the 1992 Dream Team to the gold medal during the Barcelona Olympics.
Who has a better record between Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson?
While Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson might be good friends off the court, they were bitter rivals whenever they faced off on the court. Magic was the face of the Lakers franchise, while Jordan was the face of the Bulls. Subsequently, this led to a healthy rivalry on the court.
MJ and Magic have faced off on 13 occasions with Jordan having the edge over the Lakers legend. Jordan has 7 wins compared to Magic’s 6 wins over Jordan.
Michael Jordan averages 30.2 points, 6.8 assists, and 6.6 rebounds playing against Johnson. On the other hand, Magic averages 19.5 points, 11.3 assists, and 5.6 rebounds. (Source: stathead.com)
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What is your favorite memory of Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson? Let us know in the comments down below.
Written by
Edited by
Pritam Priyedarshi