Magic Johnson: 'My biggest challenge is being alive, 30 years after announcing that I had HIV' / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: AP-Scanpix Credit AP-Scanpix

The name of Earvin 'Magic' Johnson remains one of the biggest claims when it comes to talking about the NBA. He was one of the columns on which the league is built today.

Free throws this season

73%16,8Points made:16,8Accuracy:73,2%Place in standings:18Record max:42Record min:6Most made FTs:LeBron JamesTeamNBAStatisticsSchedule

Because of that, Johnson decided to present documentary series about his life called "They Call Me Magic".

This documentary tries to show all the edges of a character that has changed the game of basketball. While promoting this project, Los Angeles Lakers legend shared some of his thoughts with Marca to talk about the idea of this documentary, the biggest challenges in his life, and even the most memorable moment from his playing career.

Magic Johnson explained the reason why he decided to release a TV documentary about himself.

"I think because until now, I had not told my story. Some people have tried to tell my story, but they didn't come out to me and turned out not to be the truth. Now I can tell my truth, my own journey from growing up in Lansing, to playing for the Lakers and then becoming a businessman," Johnson said. People are going to see the ups and downs of my life, and now is the perfect time because people are ready for it."

The Lakers legend was asked when did he understand that his playing style of basketball became the image of the NBA.

"I would say when Larry Bird and I first faced each other in NBA finals in 1984. Everybody in America wanted to see these games. It was incredible. In '85, we met again, and people sat in front of the television again to watch the Celtics and the Lakers, but above all to see Larry Bird and Magic Johnson," he responded. I think Larry and I together changed the league, and then Jordan took it to another level."

The five-time NBA champion told about his biggest challenges on and off the court.

Earvin Magic Johnson

Position:PGAge:62Height:206 cmWeight:100 kgBirth place:United States of AmericaProfileNewsStatistics

"On the court, the challenge was always to win more championships and beat my two biggest rivals, Michael Jordan and Larry Bird. I was never able to beat Jordan in the Finals. We only met once, and he won," Johnson answered. Off the court, it was to find out if I was going to be here 30 years after announcing that I was HIV positive. That has been the biggest challenge of my career, being here 30 years later, being able to make this documentary, and being successful as a businessman."

Former NBA player remembered the greatest moment of his professional basketball career.

"Easy. The Barcelona Dream Team. Win the gold medal at the Olympic Games and get the chance to play with Michael Jordan and Larry Bird. There is nothing better than that," Magic said.

According to Magic Johnson, his three all-time best NBA players were Larry Bird, Michael Jordan, and Kobe Bryant.

"Larry Bird for his shooting ability and his intelligence on the floor. Michael Jordan for his jumping ability, how he floated through the air and created some of the most beautiful shots in basketball, and how he dominated the court. And the last one I would say is Kobe Bryant because of the Mamba Mentality," he pointed out.

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