Basketball royalty continues to shine long after the final buzzer. Earvin “Magic” Johnson, the Michigan State University icon and five-time NBA champion with the Los Angeles Lakers, has been officially named one of the 100 Most Influential People in Sports by TIME 100 Magazine. The recognition celebrates not only his extraordinary athletic career but also his decades of transformative influence in business, philanthropy, and community development.
Johnson, 65, was honored during a star-studded gala in New York City, where sports figures from around the globe gathered to celebrate leaders shaping the industry. In its feature, TIME described Johnson as “the embodiment of a sports legend whose vision extends far beyond the court, building bridges between athletics, business, and social impact.”
From his championship days at Michigan State—where he led the Spartans to the 1979 NCAA title—to his Hall of Fame career with the Lakers, Johnson’s name has long been synonymous with excellence. Yet, it’s his post-basketball journey that cemented his place on the list. Over the past three decades, Johnson has built a multi-billion-dollar business empire, investing in urban communities, promoting health awareness, and serving as a role model for athletes transitioning to life beyond sports.
“I’ve always believed the game was just the beginning,” Johnson said in his acceptance speech. “Sports gave me a platform, but it’s what you do with that platform—how you serve, how you uplift—that defines your legacy.”
The announcement was met with enthusiasm from across the sports world. Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar called the honor “long overdue,” noting that Johnson’s impact “has been felt in boardrooms, neighborhoods, and locker rooms alike.” Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo added, “Magic’s influence on our program and our players is as strong today as it was in ’79. He’s the blueprint.”
In addition to his business and philanthropic work, Johnson remains deeply connected to the game. He serves as an NBA ambassador, frequently mentoring young players and advocating for greater diversity in sports leadership roles. His ownership stakes in teams across multiple leagues, including the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Washington Commanders, further highlight his broad reach.
As the spotlight shone on him at the TIME gala, Johnson’s trademark smile lit up the room—a reminder that some legends never fade. They simply keep finding new ways to inspire.
