The game of basketball saw many legends, from Wilt Chamberlain, Magic Johnson to Michael Jordan and LeBron James. But the two names, Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson, come up all the time when there is a discussion of the GOAT debate. Magic Johnson, along with Larry Bird, revolutionized the game of basketball in the 80s. And Jordan took it to another level by making the NBA a global phenomenon in the 90s. However, the debate about who changed the game continued until Jordan stepped in to settle that. Jordan came in front of the camera to say that Earvin ‘Magic’ Johnson completely took the game to another level.

Magic Johnson dominated the basketball court in the 80s. He and Larry Bird shared eight titles between themselves. However, Magic Johnson took the lead with five championships under his name. Johnson went on to become a Lakers legend by leading them to five NBA championships. The Los Angeles Lakers retired the No.32 jersey worn by him after Johnson announced his retirement. The impact of Magic Johnson probably changed the dynamics of the NBA until the arrival of MJ.

Michael Jordan on ending the GOAT debate

In the first episode of ‘They Call Me Magic,” Michael Jordan caught the attention of viewers by coming in front of the camera. He went on to surprise the fans with his appearance. However, he had another surprise for the viewers, which they might not have expected.

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He went on to diminish his own claim in the GOAT debate and crowned Johnson the title of game-changer. Jordan said??Everybody wants to credit Michael Jordan for changing the NBA. When Magic Johnson came in, that?s when the game changed.”

The quote from Jordan clarified his perspective on the GOAT debate. The fans might debate who changed the sport of basketball. But the statement from MJ really showed the amount respect he had for Magic Johnson and his craft. And it is safe to say, that such high respect is mutual.

Magic Johnson on passing down the torch to Michael Jordan

While Magic Johnson dominated the 80s, Jordan also displayed himself as a worthy successor of Johnson with his performances. Jordan bossed the court by three-peating twice with the Chicago Bulls in the 90s.

During the Olympics of 1992, Magic Johnson, along with Larry Bird knew a young man was on the rise. The young man showcased brilliant performances from the early 90s to capture the essence of basketball. They knew their time was coming to an end and chose to pass down the torch to him.

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Both Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson were one of a kind. The fans might continue to debate even after the statement of Michael Jordan. But that wouldn’t change the fact that both of them took the game to a new level in their own way.