NBA legend and former Los Angeles Lakers star Magic Johnson was one of the best players to grace the game of basketball. He won multiple titles and broke numerous records in the NBA. However, on November 7, 1991, Johnson shocked the NBA world as he announced his shock retirement at a press conference. This was due to Johnson contracting the deadly virus: HIV/AIDS.
At the time Johnson thought that he was ‘given a death sentence’ by the Lakers’ doctor Michael Mellman. This was after hearing about the news. However, this was not the case. The doctor promised him that he could live a long life if he took his medicine. Johnson is a living example that HIV does not always translate into death. He therefore provided an update on his health on this significant (World AIDS) day.
Speaking to the fans during the 60th anniversary of Martin Luther King‘s legacy, the 12-time All-Star talked candidly about the challenges. He noted that the decision was hard to broadcast. Also, the numbers were high at the time in brown and black areas. Magic Johnson also recalled that AZT was the sole drug offered at the ASU campus in the past.
Today, on World AIDS Day, I take a moment to reflect on my journey living with HIV for 33 years. It’s been a long road, but I’m healthy and stronger than ever due to the medical advancements, research, and work of those in the HIV/AIDS community! I want to thank all the doctors,…
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) December 1, 2024
Medical advancements have occurred since then. His recent tweets indicate that the three-time Finals MVP once said that the number was near 40. Additionally, the Lakers legend attributes another incident to “saving his life.” This was none other than the love from the fans.
Magic Johnson ‘credits’ fans for another chance in life
Magic Johnson was interviewed by BBC News before the 2024 Olympics to discuss the Olympic journey. As previously said, the Los Angeles Lakers legend was forced to give up hoops, which had an impact on the 1992 Barcelona games. The host, Katty Kay, questioned the four-time champion about his response when other players declined to play with him.
Magic Johnson told BBC, I was upset then, Yeah, very angry.” However, the outgoing Commissioner permitted Johnson to return. The NBA All-Star game that year was huge for Johnson. According to basketball-reference, 658,211 fans cast votes for Johnson to feature in the game, despite him not playing that season.
Magic Johnson throws the no look pass to Michael Jordan for the dunk! (1992) pic.twitter.com/93Z9eTbTAV
— ThrowbackHoops (@ThrowbackHoops) June 24, 2024
In addition, Johnson also thanked the outgoing commissioner David Stern for his kind act. He expressed gratitude to the former commissioner for allowing him to play and share a positive message with the globe.