“You a Good Player But You Ain’t Magic Johnson”: Bitter Realization About Lakers Legend Forced NBA Veteran to Pursue Career Beyond Basketball

Magic Johnson was an absolute legend on the basketball court during his stint with the Showtime Lakers. His remarkable career inspired many players around the world. His presence on the hardwood mesmerized fans, aided by crafty handles and fancy passes. But Magic Johnson’s influence wasn’t just limited to his own team and his fans at that time. He was so good that he made other players question their own abilities and career choices. Recently, a veteran NBA player opened up about how Johnson’s game and success affected his long term career decisions. 

Recently, during an appearance on the Draymond Green Show, retired NBA player Jalen Rose talked about his transition towards media as a career and what influenced him to make that decision. He went on and talked about feeling inadequate on the court, especially when compared to players like Magic Johnson. 

Jalen Rose explains his decision to choose media following Magic Johnson realization

As Rose shared on the Draymond Green Show, his admiration for basketball greats like Magic Johnson and the “Bad Boys” Pistons was only part of the story. He was also drawn to athletes who had “personality,” who were “flamboyant” and had “loud” voices. It was this appreciation for expressive athletes that led Rose to pursue a degree in Communications, while playing at the University of Michigan.

However, as Rose began his professional career, he realized that he needed to prepare for a future beyond basketball. He recounted feeling the limitations of his talent palpably and coming to the self-realization, “You a good player but you ain’t Magic…That hit me one day”. Rose further admitted saying to himself, “You need to find something else to do.” This realization inspired the former Raptors star to explore an alternative career in sports media.

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“I started to figure other things that I could do in the game that I love,” Rose explained. “Once I got traded from the Pacers to the Bulls, it was February this time of the year, and the team had nine wins, and I’m like, ‘we ain’t going to the playoffs for sure.’ So, I reached out to a contact at BET Sports and I pitched the idea for them to let me cover the Finals for them.”

Rose’s career as a sports analyst

Rose’s idea was a success, and he soon found himself working for the Best Damn Sports Show Period and MTV Movie Awards, while still playing in the NBA. His passion for sports media continued after he retired from basketball and he eventually landed at ESPN where he has become a prominent analyst and commentator. Jalen Rose’s journey from NBA player to sports media personality is one of determination and passion. 

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As Rose himself puts it, “I’ve been able to stay around the game I love and continue to make a living at it.”