Magic Johnson was an impeccable basketball player. His NBA career was impacted by a disease. Here is everything about the Magic Johnson HIV announcement and its impact.
Magic Johnson is a former NBA player. Magic Johnson is a five-time NBA champion who has a net worth of $1 Billion. Johnson had a successful NBA career, but a shocking revelation from the star player made every fan cry. Magic Johnson was playing for the Los Angeles Lakers during the 1990-1991 season. In November 1991, Johnson met the public and revealed he was diagnosed with HIV.
Magic Johnson also confirmed he was diagnosed with the disease after multiple sexual relationships. Johnson revealed he found HIV through a physical examination test. Reports indicated Johnson was affected because of bisexual relationship, but the star player didn’t agree with the reports. Magic Johnson’s retirement was a surprise and his fans couldn’t move on from the announcement.
Magic Johnson was just 32 when he announced his first retirement from the NBA. He wanted to battle the disease and spend time with his family. Magic Johnson’s retirement was a blessing in disguise for many. People were aware about HIV and some even tested for HIV. Magic Johnson also called for safe sex and was an inspiration for many. Former USA President, George Bush, was impressed by Magic Johnson’s retirement and he said “For me, Magic is a hero, a hero for anyone who loves sports”. Isiah Thomas, the former Detroit Pistons player was the one who spread rumors about Johnson’s relationship.
Magic Johnson stunned everyone in 1992 with his HIV announcement. His retirement in the NBA added more salt to the wounds of his fans. Johnson was the trending topic for a year, and he was praised by the media and fans for the act. There was a twist in the take as Johnson returned to the 1992 All-star Game, but he announced his retirement after the game as his teammates were against this. Magic Johnson again made a return in the NBA for the Lakers in 1996 and made his final retirement after the season.
In 1999, Magic Johnson moved to the Swedish basketball league and played for the Magic M7 Borås. Johnson also played for the Magic Great Danes in 2000. Magic Johnson has 17,000 NBA points and he completed 10,000 assists. Johnson also won a Gold Medal at the 1992 Olympics. He also founded the Magic Johnson Enterprises.