The opening weekend of the NBA playoffs has been full of highs and lows, and the drama isn’t slowing down anytime soon. But it’s not just the NBA where things are heating up. Meanwhile, the NWSL faced upheaval of its own. On Saturday night, Magic Johnson’s Washington Spirit handed the defending NWSL champion, Orlando Pride. This is its first loss of the 2025 season. The Spirit snapped Orlando’s 603‑day unbeaten home run with a 1‑0 victory, but the Spirit did it without their star, Trinity Rodman. She missed the game due to injury. Yet Magic Johnson made sure the world knew about both the win and her situation.

Magic Johnson bought stakes in the NWSL’s Washington Spirit in September 2024, and since then, he’s been all-in. He’s supported the team through their wins and losses. And after Saturday’s big victory over the Orlando Pride, he had plenty to celebrate. In the 63rd minute, newcomer Gift Monday seized on a defensive error to score her first Spirit goal.

Since Magic took over, the team’s been on fire, winning 11 road matches since the start of the 2024 season, the most in the league. But one player who hasn’t been a constant presence is Trinity Rodman. Even as Gift Monday’s strike stole headlines, concern swirled over Trinity Rodman’s absence.  The 22-year-old was listed as “out” for Saturday’s match and was scheduled for treatment in London. While Magic made sure to share the team’s big win with the world. He didn’t forget to wish his star player well, too.

Magic Johnson shared his excitement in back-to-back posts on X, celebrating both the win and his injured star player. First, he shouted out the victory, writing, “Congratulations to my Washington Spirit on our big 1-0 win over the Orlando Pride yesterday! @WashSpirit” Just minutes later, he followed up with a heartfelt message for Trinity Rodman: “Also wishing our Spirit superstar Trinity Rodman a speedy recovering from her back injury!” It’s classic Magic, pumped about the win but always showing love and leadership where it matters most.

Magic Johnson and Michele Kang brew big dreams for the Washington Spirit’s rise

Back in 2022, Michele Kang bought the Washington Spirit in a deal that valued the team at $35 million. By 2024, NBA legend Magic Johnson joined the ownership group, adding another powerhouse name to the mix. Magic now holds stakes in five pro teams, but Kang says his presence with the Spirit feels deeply personal and purposeful.

Kang said, “His (Magic Johnson) involvement in mentoring young children and providing sort of the dreams and hopes to them is something just that no one can match.” She also admitted, “ we’re just incredibly honored to have him as part of our community.” 

Out of the blue, their connection sparked over a meeting in L.A. and that’s where they quickly bonded over a shared dream for women’s soccer in America.  “The popularity of the game is exploding here in America,” Johnson said. And he wants to help steer that rocket ship.

Now, their goal is crystal clear. “We want to win championships,” Johnson declared. “My teams have won 14. I need my 15th now.” With Kang’s visionary leadership and Magic’s winning mindset, the Spirit might just become the blueprint for success in the NWSL. What do you think?.