“True friendship is hard to find,” but once you have it, there’s nothing quite like it. We all need that one friend who stands by us through thick and thin, and they are the ones who turn moments into memories and hardships into lessons! And for NBA Hall of Famer Magic Johnson, who is that person? Well, he has found that in Mike Triplett, the president of U.S. commercial business for Cigna Healthcare. And today, as Triplett celebrates another year of life, Magic Johnson decided to take their friendship to another level with a heartfelt tribute. But how?

Johnson and Triplett formed a bond during the COVID-19 pandemic, uniting to uplift communities in crisis. But how did it become this strong? The 65-year-old explained: “We lost 41% of the members of Black business owners since the pandemic, and 32% decline in Hispanic businesses, and then 25% decline in women-owned businesses.” Lapping onto it, Triplett echoed Cigna’s commitment, “as a global health service company, Cigna’s mission is to improve the health, well-being, and peace of mind of those we serve by making health care simple, affordable, and predictable.” With this shared vision, Johnson and Triplett wasted no time addressing disparities in healthcare and economic stability. They tackled the severe challenges faced by small businesses and focused on the well-being of staff and the communities they serve. That’s how they came close and built an unbreakable bond.

On Mike Triplett’s birthday, Johnson took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his heartfelt gratitude. His post not only honored Triplett, but also sparked curiosity, leading many to search for him online. Johnson shared three photos in total. One of them posing at a joint venture and two with their families. The images highlighted their deep personal connection. But what truly stood out was the powerful message Johnson dedicated to Triplett, a tribute that spoke volumes about their friendship and shared mission.

Johnson wrote, “Happy Birthday to my great friend Mike Triplett! He’s a man I respect and admire, with a big heart and an incredible mind. Wishing you an amazing day!” It wasn’t just a birthday wish, it was more like a statement. A public nod to a leader, a friend, and a man who’s made an impact. And just like that, with a few words and a couple of pics, Johnson reminded the world that some bonds go beyond business.

Magic Johnson’s legacy: giving back through the Magic Johnson Foundation

Magic Johnson was never just about only basketball. Sure, he dominated the court, but his true legacy lies somewhere else. You can not bound it by his championships and MVP trophies. When he founded the Magic Johnson Foundation (MJF) in 1991, he wasn’t looking for applause, he was looking for change.

In the U.S.A. for too long, urban communities especially those of color have been left behind. Underfunded schools, limited healthcare access, and systemic barriers have held people back for generations. Magic saw it firsthand. He grew up in Lansing, Michigan, knowing the struggles of working-class families. And when his platform gave him the power to do something, he didn’t think of anything else. He jumped in the middle of all these to help people as much as he could.

Do not misunderstand the Magic Johnson Foundation as just about helping, it’s about empowering. To date, It fights to break down the walls that keep minority communities from thriving. It pushes for economic and social equality, supports education, raises awareness for HIV/AIDS, and builds the next generation of leaders. It’s not a handout, it’s a lifeline. One that says, We see you. We believe in you. And we’re here to make sure you succeed.

And Magic doesn’t just talk the talk. A portion of MJF’s funding comes straight from Magic Johnson Enterprises, his business empire built by the community, for the community. Because to him, success isn’t about how much you make it’s about how many people you lift up with you.

Believe me or not the truth is when you invest in people, you change many lives. And Magic Johnson? He’s been doing that long after he walked off the court.