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Making it to the NBA is nothing less than a feat in and of itself. Every year, countless young basketball stars take their shots at going pro, but only a handful of them make it into the league. Apart from dedication and hard work, the game requires you to be committed with all your heart and soul. This topic was touched upon by NBA legend Magic Johnson a few months ago during an interview alongside his wife, Cookie. He was asked about the difference between Magic and Earvin Johnson.

The Los Angeles Lakers legend had a very interesting answer to the question and he also revealed how basketball got in the way of his marriage with Cookie while answering the initial question asked.

Magic Johnson once made an honest marriage claim in front of his wife

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Five-time NBA champion Magic Johnson was already touted as the next big thing even before entering the NBA. Safe to say, he lived up to the hype and the expectations. Apart from being extremely talented, he had the dedication and commitment to take himself to the next level.

In fact, he faced difficulties in his marriage with his wife, Cookie due to basketball! During an interview a few months ago, the Lakers legend was asked about the difference is between Magic Johnson and Earvin Johnson. “Magic was the guy on the basketball court who would take your head off in the court”, said Johnson. 

Following up on his answer, he said, “I’m such a competitor that it made it difficult for us to get married because I was actually married to basketball. That’s what type of commitment it takes to go to the highest level.”

READ MORE: After Shock HIV Diagnosis, Magic Johnson Frantically Called His Other Intimate Partners, Leaving Wife Cookie Uneasy

Cookie and Magic got married in 1991 just before he tested positive for HIV. During that tough time, she was a pillar of strength in his life. The former NBA champion has acknowledged her contributions to his life on multiple occasions. Additionally, he also once claimed that he wouldn’t have survived if wasn’t for Cookie.

Meanwhile, during the interview, Earlitha Cookie Johnson also described the difference between Magic and Earvin. Earvin was a kind, gentle soul with whom she fell in love in college. On the contrary, Magic was a ruthless competitor who was willing to sacrifice everything to succeed at the highest level.

Cookie caught Johnson’s attention with his first glance at her

The two dated for quite some time before they tied the knot in 1991. Cookie and Magic met during a party while the two were still in college. She walked into the party and immediately caught the young basketball sensation’s eye.

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“So we were coming to a party, it was a party, and she came walking in with the tightest jeans I’ve ever seen, caught a brother’s eye”, Johnson once said in a people interview, describing his future wife. Not only her dress, but her dancing also mesmerized Johnson. Interestingly, he was more than determined to get her number before he left the party. He did just that and this sparked a romance that is still going strong.

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What is your favorite Magic Johnson moment? Let us know in the comments down below.