What better way to start a season: Of course, a victory and more so, over the number 1 team from the previous season? Well, the Washington Spirit got both of these in the bag. They have started their season with a revenge victory over Orlando Pride, winning the 2025 Challenge Cup. And guess how? In a dramatic penalty shootout! After last year’s heartbreak in the NWSL Championship, this victory felt like a fresh start — one that even Magic Johnson couldn’t help but celebrate. The basketball legend, now part of the team’s ownership group, was filled with pride for his squad’s big moment. But what did he say?

The game itself was nothing short of intense. Orlando took the lead in the first half, putting pressure on Washington early. But the Spirit didn’t give up easily and fought back. With the score locked at 1-1 after regulation, the match went straight to penalties. This is where it gets exciting. Orlando’s Summer Yates missed her attempt, and Washington’s Aubrey Kingsbury came through with a clutch save. That set up defender Tara McKeown, who coolly converted the winning shot, sealing the championship. And who could stop Johnson after the thriller?

NBA legend Magic Johnson wasted no time celebrating the win. Taking to Instagram, he shared the Spirit’s official post on his story. He wrote, “Congratulations to my Washington Spirit for starting their season off right with a Challenge Cup Championship over the number 1 ranked Orlando Pride! @washingtonspirit.” It’s an exciting moment for the team, and Johnson is elated by the news of the victory.

His connection to the team goes beyond being a supporter. Just last year, Johnson became one of the Spirit’s investors, joining forces with Michele Kang to help grow women’s soccer. He’s no stranger to building winning teams, and his vision is clear—championships. “We want to win championships,” he said, and with this victory, the Spirit is already on their way. Well, it will be interesting to see if Johnson will be able to get his desired 15th victory this time or not.

Magic Johnson’s long-time love for his alma mater

Well, the Washington Spirit weren’t the only one making Magic Johnson proud, there’s another reason that had him beaming recently. Johnson’s love for Michigan State is no secret. Whether through social media posts or in-person support, he never misses a chance to uplift his alma mater. When the Spartans triumphed over USC and UCLA, he cheered them on. When Tre Holloman put on a stellar performance, he made sure to praise him. Now, as MSU celebrates a major milestone, Johnson is over the moon.

The game against Iowa started with tension. The Hawkeyes built a strong lead, at one point ahead by 14 in the second half. But MSU wasn’t done. With a powerful 33-6 scoring run, they flipped the script and took control. Holloman and freshman Jase Richardson hit crucial three-pointers, while Jaden Akins helped secure the 91-84 win at Carver-Hawkeye Arena.

After the victory, Johnson took to X, proudly declaring: “Congratulations to my Michigan State Spartans on their 91-84 victory over Iowa! With this win they are the regular season Big Ten Champions! Go Green, Go White! @MSU_Basketball.”

Richardson led the charge with 22 points, showing impressive resilience under pressure. “He’s just so calm, he doesn’t get rattled,” Coach Tom Izzo remarked. Akins, Jaxon Kohler, Jeremy Fears Jr., and Holloman all hit double figures, highlighting a balanced team effort.

With this momentum, MSU now prepares to face its rival, Michigan. Johnson, who has been hyping the team for weeks, must be proud. His support continues to fuel the Spartans, proving that sometimes, inspiration off the court is just as powerful as performance on it.