EAST LANSING, MI — July 3, 2025 — In one of the most generous and emotionally powerful acts of philanthropy in Michigan State University’s history, Spartan basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson has donated $14 million to MSU Health Care, with the heartfelt goal of transforming neonatal and pediatric intensive care services across the state.
The gift, announced at a moving press conference on campus surrounded by doctors, nurses, and families, will fund the creation of the Magic Johnson Center for Pediatric Healing and Hope — a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to serving Michigan’s most vulnerable patients: newborns and critically ill children.
A Gift from the Heart
“For me, this is personal,” said Johnson, who grew up in Lansing and starred at Michigan State before becoming an NBA icon. “Every child deserves a fighting chance, and every parent deserves hope. I’m doing this for the babies, the parents, and for the place that made me who I am.”
The donation will support advanced neonatal technologies, expand NICU and PICU capacity, and establish scholarship programs for young medical professionals focused on pediatric care. It will also provide family housing support for parents whose children are undergoing long-term treatment.
A Legacy of Love and Leadership
Magic Johnson’s commitment to community health is well known, but this gift takes his legacy of service to extraordinary new heights. University officials revealed that the project had been in quiet planning for months, with Magic working closely alongside MSU Health Care administrators, pediatric specialists, and campus leadership.
“This isn’t just a donation — it’s a promise to generations of Michigan families,” said MSU President Teresa Woodruff. “Magic Johnson has once again proven that his heart is as big as his legend.”
A Lifesaving Vision for Michigan
Construction of the new facility is expected to begin in early 2026, with the goal of becoming a national model in pediatric care and training. Magic’s contribution is expected to directly impact thousands of young lives over the coming decade.
As the crowd applauded his announcement, Magic stood with mist in his eyes and simply said, “This is for the little fighters. The real warriors. And this is forever.”
💚 Because for Magic Johnson, being a Spartan means giving everything for the ones who need it most.
