“Serena Williams Called Me”: Magic Johnson Disrobed WTA Star’s Role in His Life-Altering Decision 3 Years Ago

In 2019, Magic Johnson stood in front of several mics looking somber. This was a sight that the basketball community was all too familiar with. Unlike in 1992 when he donned a black suit to announce his retirement due to HIV, this time Johnson was in a grey suit. Johnson announced that he would be stepping down as the President of the Los Angeles Lakers. The decision left the organization blindsided. While he revealed the reasons behind his move, Johnson revealed the role tennis legend Serena Williams played.

Magic Johnson had a list of reasons to leave the Los Angeles Lakers. However, he focused on claiming that he was no longer happy with his role. It had pained him to make this decision. The five-time NBA champion claimed that no one knew about his resignation. He further stated that he wouldn’t have been able to go through with it if he had informed Jeanie Buss, the owner of the Lakers. While the organization thanked Johnson for his service, the Lakers legend soon revealed the list of the reasons that pushed him towards making this call.

Serena William’s role in Magic Johnson’s decision

Magic Johnson was unhappy. He simply wanted to go back to being an ambassador for the team. Investigation and fines from the league contributed heavily to Johnson’s unhappy state.

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Johnson was being investigated for having spoken and tweeted about the games and other players. He wasn’t allowed to do so as president of the organization. Johnson said, “I thought about Dwyane Wade retiring (Wednesday), and I can’t even tweet that out or be there.” The inability of loving the game of basketball openly was hurtful to Johnson.

Amidst this, Johnson revealed that Tennis legend Serena Williams had a job opportunity for him. He said, “Serena Williams called me a week ago and said, ‘Will you mentor me and be on my advisory board?’” Johnson was ready for this. With the mentoring role around the corner, his decision to quit became easier.

Magic Johnson on Rob Pelinka

A few days after this announcement, Johnson revealed that general manager Rob Pelinka had betrayed him. He claimed that he heard Pelinka speaking ill of him behind his back.

Following these allegations, Rob Pelinka spoke to the media. He claimed that everything said was untrue. While stating that it was “disheartening” to listen to Johnson’s comments. “I’ve always supported everything he’s done and will continue to”, he said.

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What do you think about Serena Williams’ role in Magic Johnson’s decision? Let us know in the comments below.