Basketball legend Magic Johnson ignited social media with a recent claim linking Michael Jordan and Barack Obama’s iconic moments. According to Johnson, Obama’s triumphant pose after winning the 2008 presidential election drew inspiration from a friendly basketball battle with none other than His Airness.

MJ’s outstretched arms and raised fist after winning against the Utah Jazz became an instantly recognizable image. Reminiscing about a barbeque at the White House, Johnson wrote, “Cookie and I were invited to a barbecue at the White House, and I played in a pickup game with President Obama and current and former NBA players. The game was tied and President Obama drained the game-winning shot and held his Michael Jordan against Utah in the NBA Finals pose for all to see!”

It suggests that Obama, a proclaimed basketball enthusiast, drew inspiration from someone he admired, both on and off the court. It could be interpreted as a tribute to Jordan’s achievements and leadership qualities, qualities Obama would later exhibit on a global stage. Nevertheless, Magic’s post also highlighted his connection with the 44th POTUS.

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The two, along with their wives, share a close bond and have been supporting each other for years. Just last September, Magic and his wife Cookie were honored at The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation Ball for their work in HIV and AIDS awareness. While Barack Obama wasn’t present in person, he had some heartfelt words to share for his friend.

Magic Johnson and Barack Obama’s mutual respect and admiration

Obama’s note read, “At the time, a lot of people didn’t understand HIV and AIDs. We didn’t know if Magic would survive, let alone play basketball again. But as the saying goes, adversity doesn’t build character, it reveals it. And Magic’s pragmatic, optimistic approach to his diagnosis ended up changing the way the world saw the disease.” This came years after Johnson shared some beautiful words following the completion of the former President’s 2nd term.

Magic shared an almost 800-word note where he thanked the POTUS for his dedication and for representing the people of the country. The 5x NBA champion didn’t leave any stone unturned in his message. He again mentioned the pickup game they played all those years ago, writing, “I don’t know if we will ever see another president with a jump shot like yours!“

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