Apparently in 1986, the Lakers tried to trade James Worthy so they could land a different small forward. Magic Johnson was said to be pushing for the move that would reconnect with him an old friend. The legendary point guard faced off against this friend in the NCAA Final Four in 1979, when Magic played for Michigan State and his friend, for DePaul University. Now, 44 years later, Johnson is celebrating his old friend’s triumphant return to his alma mater.

Recently, the 3x NBA MVP extended a heartfelt message of congratulations to commend his close friend. The former Detroit Pistons player shares a deep friendship with Johnson. Throughout their enduring friendship, both have demonstrated unwavering support for one another. 

Magic Johnson is delighted by Mark Aguirre’s comeback to DePaul

DePaul University recently announced the return of a 3x NBA All-Star to assume a significant role. Mark Aguirre will be assisting the athletic director, DeWayne Peevy. When he secured the coveted job opportunity he had long aspired for, it brought immense joy to his long-time friend, the Los Angeles Lakers legend, Magic Johnson.

Though the duo never faced off during the 1979 NCAA Tournament, both would enjoy podium finishes with their respective teams. DePaul University’s last Final Four finish was 44 years ago, with Mark Aguirre at the helm. Now, the 63-year-old has returned with similar hopes of success.

Expressing his elation for his friend, 5x NBA champion Magic took to his Twitter account and wrote: “There’s no one who loves DePaul University more than Mark and he’s been dreaming about the opportunity to return to DePaul for over 15 years. Thank you to President Robert L. Manuel and Athletic Director Peevy. You could not have chosen a better man and person than my great friend Mark Aguirre!”

Johnson enjoyed a deep friendship with the 2x NBA champion.  In 1984, during the finals where the Lakers lost to Larry Bird’s Boston Celtics, both Mark Aguirre and Isiah Thomas stood by his side to offer their support.

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It’s only fitting that the legend reciprocates the love and support, now that his friend is fulfilling his long-cherished dream.

Mark Aguirre’s responsibilities at De Paul

As an assistant to Peevy, Aguirre’s main focus will be on community outreach, donor engagement, and providing strategic direction.

Back in 2010, both Isiah Thomas and Aguirre aspired to work at DePaul. However, Aguirre’s ambition to secure the head coaching position at DePaul was thwarted due to his lack of a college degree.

Nonetheless, in 2014, he made substantial strides towards acquiring his bachelor’s degree in sports management. It instilled the confidence that he would finally achieve this milestone in this year.

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