NBA Legend Magic Johnson Sends Message After Receiving Major Honor
The Los Angeles Lakers drafted Magic Johnson first overall in 1979. He played 13 seasons and appeared in 906 games. Johnson averaged 19.5 points, 7.2 rebounds and 11.2 assists per game while shooting 52.0% from the field. He led the Lakers to five NBA championships in 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987 and 1988, winning three Most Valuable Player awards and three Finals MVP honors.
In November 1991, Johnson was forced to retire at age 32 after he announced he had tested positive for HIV. He returned briefly for the 1992 All-Star Game and played 32 games in the 1995-96 season before his final retirement.
Despite the setback, Johnson still stands as one of the greatest players of all time and is most renowned for revolutionizing the point guard position and creating one of basketball's greatest rivalries with Larry Bird of the Boston Celtics.
He has since received major recognition for his impact, including being inducted into The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2002 and the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021.
Johnson was also recently honored with the 2026 Dean Smith Award by the United States Basketball Writers Association. The award, named after Hall of Fame coach Dean Smith, recognizes Johnson's philanthropic work and strong community impact over the years. His foundation has driven HIV/AIDS education and prevention while supporting ethnically diverse and underserved urban communities.
On Tuesday, Johnson expressed his appreciation for the award on X:
"United States Basketball Writer's Association, thank you for honoring me with an award named after Hall of Fame Coach Dean Smith - recognizing my philanthropic contributions in communities across the country. I had the privilege of hanging out with two amazing basketball players! USBWA Freshman of the Year - Jazzy Davidson (Guard at USC) and Robbie Avilo (Center at St. Louis University). I also enjoyed my conversation with Matt Norlander and Malcolm Moran!"
United States Basketball Writer's Association, thank you for honoring me with an award named after Hall of Fame Coach Dean Smith - recognizing my philanthropic contributions in communities across the country.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) April 14, 2026
I had the privilege of hanging out with two amazing basketball… pic.twitter.com/oec8veDm9X
At 66 years old, Johnson remains a well-respected voice in sports. He received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in January 2025 from President Joe Biden. He has also been successful as a businessman and sports owner.
Johnson's work on and off the court continues to inspire players, fans and communities and this latest honor adds to a lifetime of achievement and service.
Related: NBA Legend Magic Johnson Sends Message After Unfortunate Lakers News
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This story was originally published April 14, 2026 at 9:15 AM.