American · Lansing, Michigan · Born 14 August 1959American basketball point guard who led Michigan State to 1979 NCAA Championship before legendary NBA career with Los Angeles Lakers
Earvin Johnson Jr. was born in Lansing, Michigan in 1959. He earned his nickname Magic at 15 after a 36-point, 18-rebound, 16-assist performance covered by a local sportswriter. He attended Michigan State for two seasons and transformed the Spartans into a national power. His freshman season (1977-78) produced the Big Ten title. His sophomore season (1978-79) produced the national championship — defeating Indiana State and Larry Bird 75-64 in a game that drew the highest television ratings in college basketball history, launching both players' rivalry and professional careers simultaneously. He was named the tournament's Most Outstanding Player after averaging 17.3 points, 7.9 rebounds and 8.4 assists per game in the tournament. He was the Big Ten Player of the Year and a consensus All-American. He declared for the 1979 NBA Draft after his sophomore season. Los Angeles Lakers selected him first overall. His two Michigan State seasons established the foundation of a career that would produce five NBA championships and three MVP awards. His freshman year with the Spartans — a Big Ten championship — and his sophomore national title represent a perfect two-year college run that has never been replicated.
Leading Michigan State to victory over Larry Bird's undefeated Indiana State team in the 1979 NCAA Championship game.
How They Played
Johnson played point guard despite his 6'9" height, which was unprecedented for the position at the time. His exceptional court vision and passing ability allowed him to create scoring opportunities for teammates from anywhere on the court. He combined size, speed, and basketball intelligence to control the tempo of games and make plays that smaller guards couldn't execute.
Lasting Impact
Johnson helped elevate the popularity of college basketball and demonstrated that tall players could successfully run an offense from the point guard position. His epic 1979 NCAA Championship game against Larry Bird became one of the most watched and influential games in college basketball history.
Career Honours
- National Championship (1979)
- Tournament MOP (1979)
- Big Ten Player of Year
- All-American
| Club | Period | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Michigan State Spartans | 1977–1979 | 77 |
American Athletes