Earvin “Magic” Johnson redefined what NBA superstardom means. While the legendary Bird-Magic rivalry made the league a global success, the latter became an icon off the court as well. Whether it was the celebrity parade that accompanied him or the flashy passes, everything Johnson did, exuded flair. Though he had to prematurely retire, Johnson’s charisma and presence can be felt to this day. As a player, an owner, an analyst and a GM, Magic has left his mark on the Los Angeles Lakers.

While his basketball accomplishments are well known, many might not know that the legendary point guard is also a terrific chef! Recently, his relationship with food caught the media’s eye on his Instagram.

Magic Johnson lives it up in Italy

Even though his career abruptly ended due to an HIV diagnosis, Magic remained a constant in NBA circles. In fact, he was so popular that he was among the leading vote-getters for the All-Star game even after retirement. So naturally, his personal life was also in the eye of the storm. As a result, the greatest point guard of all time’s love for food became common knowledge.

A few years ago, Magic spoke to Forbes about his love for food, especially Italian cuisine. As he explained, he and his wife Cookie, have been avid travelers throughout their lives.

But, it seems like they have found a favorite destination. After his first?proper?tour of Europe, Magic could not stop gushing about the culture, and of course, the food. In his recent Instagram post, Magic shared a picture with his wife from a yacht. In the caption, he explained how the two were en route to their favorite restaurant, Ristorante Puny,?in their favorite city,?Portofino.

?It seems like the two have finally found a special place after years of travel. Recently, the chef at Mamo Michelangelo shared a picture with Magic, celebrating 30 years of friendship.

It’s heartwarming to see the couple enjoy their retreat. For Magic, it has been a long journey to happiness since his career abruptly ended at its peak.

The 1992 diagnosis

On November 7, 1991, the NBA world was shaken to its core.

Magic Johnson, coming off a Finals loss, had just announced his retirement. He was in the league for barely twelve years and had averaged double digits in assists for 9 consecutive seasons!

However, less than two months after getting married, the flamboyant legend contracted HIV.

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Players from around the league came out in support of Magic and Charles Barkley even changed his jersey number to honor the legend. Nonetheless, his health concerns forced him to retire. While he has grown into one of the most successful athletes turned businessmen, the “What If” will forever haunt NBA fans.

In the 1995-96 season, Earvin briefly returned to the hardwood to help his Lakers break their title drought. Unfortunately, they were knocked out in the first round by the defending champions, the Rockets. Johnson never returned to the NBA since.

Prior to his first retirement, Magic was making a solid case for being the GOAT. With 9 Finals appearances and 5 victories in 12 seasons, the sky was the limit.

While we may never know what could’ve been, it is heartening to see Magic and Cookie living their best life after retirement.

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