Magic Johnson Draft Selection (1979)
The legendary point guard who redefined basketball with his vision and leadership, leading the Lakers to five NBA championships.
Earvin "Magic" Johnson Jr. (born August 14, 1959) is an American businessman and former professional basketball player. He is widely regarded as the greatest point guard of all time and one of the greatest basketball players in history. Johnson spent his entire career with the Los Angeles Lakers in the National Basketball Association (NBA). After winning a national championship with the Michigan State Spartans in 1979, Johnson was selected first overall in the 1979 NBA draft by the Lakers, then led the team to five NBA championships during their "Showtime" era.
Quick Facts
- Draft year
- 1979
- Overall pick
- 1st
- Position
- Point Guard
- College
- Michigan State University
- Immediate impact
- NBA Champion (Rookie Season)
- Career highlights
- 5x NBA Champion
- 3x Finals MVP
- 3x Regular Season MVP
Lore & Background
Johnson retired abruptly on November 7, 1991, after announcing that he had contracted HIV, but returned to play in the 1992 All-Star Game—voted in by fans and allowed as a special exception while still retired—winning the All-Star MVP Award. He retired again in early 1992; while some players expressed concerns, his decision was not solely due to protests. Johnson returned as a player in the 1995–96 season, turning 36 in August 1995 and playing 32 games starting January 30, 1996, before retiring for the third and final time. He holds the NBA record for average assists per game in the playoffs (12.35 assists per game). Johnson was the co-captain of the 1992 United States men's Olympic basketball team ("The Dream Team"), which won the Olympic gold medal in Barcelona.
Reader's Guide
Johnson was honored as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History in 1996 and selected to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021, and became a two-time inductee into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame—being enshrined in 2002 for his individual career and as a member of the Dream Team in 2010. Since his retirement, he has been an advocate for HIV/AIDS prevention and safe sex, as well as an entrepreneur, philanthropist, broadcaster, and motivational speaker. He is a former part-owner of the Lakers and was the team's president of basketball operations in the late 2010s. In 2025, Johnson received the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Did You Know?
- Johnson was first dubbed "Magic" at age 15 after recording a triple-double of 36 points, 18 rebounds, and 16 assists as a sophomore at Everett High School.
- He is one of a select group of players to achieve the basketball Triple Crown (NCAA championship, NBA championship, Olympic gold medal).
- As of May 2026, his net worth is estimated at US$1.6 billion by Forbes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which player did the Lakers select with the number one pick in 1979?
Earvin Johnson was chosen by Los Angeles as the top prospect from Michigan State University during this event. His arrival signaled a major shift in momentum for the organization.
What are the major career achievements associated with this draft selection?
Over his tenure, he secured five NBA titles while playing for Los Angeles. These victories cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players in basketball history.
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