Earvin Magic Johnson

In his rookie season, Johnson averaged 18.0 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 7.3 assists, earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Team and as an All-Star starter. His professional breakthrough culminated in the 1980 NBA Finals when, at 20 years old, he stepped in as center in Game 6 due to an injury, delivering an extraordinary performance with 42 points, 15 rebounds, and 7 assists to secure the championship. This historic feat earned him the NBA Finals MVP, making him the only rookie to ever achieve this distinction. This marked the beginning of the Lakers’ iconic ‘Showtime’ era.

He became a part-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2012, further expanding his portfolio as co-owner of the Los Angeles Sparks in 2014, and joining the ownership group of Los Angeles FC in 2018. Most recently, Johnson expanded his sports ownership interests by becoming a co-owner of the Washington Commanders in 2023. His lifetime contributions to sports and society were recognized with the NBA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019. He is slated to be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2025 and has been named the Grand Marshal of the 2026 Rose Parade, an honor he will assume in 2025, continuing his prominent public presence.