2023 was Magic Johnson’s year. He did something tremendous entering the NFL governors circle as a co-owner of the Washington Commanders. A few months later, he’d become one of the four athletes to join the exclusive billionaires club after a boost to a $1.2 billion net worth with three of his closest friends. From his championship-winning career, to his health advocacy, and his stints as sports team owner, Earvin “Magic” Johnson has never taken his responsibility lightly. Two people are credited for shaping him that way.

While speaking about his new billionaire status with LA Times, he gets a tad wistful that his two biggest mentors could’ve seen what he’s accomplished in the past year alone.

“Basically, you owe a lot of that to Dr. Buss,” Johnson said about the late Lakers owner, Dr. Jerry Buss who passed away in 2013. “It was his mentorship. He guided me and he was that father figure that made sure I had all the tools necessary to be successful. When you think about days like this, you wish him and my father were still alive to see what I’ve accomplished.”

In 1979, Jerry Buss purchased the Los Angeles Lakers. That same year they drafted Michigan star, Magic Johnson. They were more than just an athlete and an owner. They formed a friendship that lasted until Buss’ demise. Buss also managed the early incarnation of the Los Angeles Sparks. So when Magic got involved in the ownership group for the Lakers and Sparks, there were some reflection of the old boss.

“I didn’t even think about being an owner of a team — it just blew my mind,” Johnson said. In typical Magic fashion, he shares credit with everyone who helped him get here. “What a blessing. But you don’t get there alone. I have my people. This is not something that, like, it’s by myself. And it starts with my dad and Dr. Buss. … They paved the way for me and I can’t thank them enough.”

His father, Earvin Johnson Sr. passed away in March 2023 at the age of 88. At that point, Magic had not taken over the Commanders yet or in the billionaires club.

The two influences on Magic Johnson

In a statement announcing his father’s passing, Magic wrote, “People always ask me who I idolized growing up and I always say it started at home.” He proceeded to write, “My father was my first hero and I thank him for giving me my work ethic both on and off the court, and for always encouraging me to think outside the box and dream big.” A year later, he said something similar for Earvin Sr.

Like Senior Johnson, Jerry Buss also was a father figure to Magic. He taught him business, handling books,and all the ropes of owning a sports franchise. Buss encouraged him to save up his NBA salary to become a part owner of the Lakers after retiring. Magic was one of the last people Buss spoke to before passing away from cancer.

Earvin Johnson Sr. was Magic’s first and last hero. Dr Buss is remembered as the guy who made the NBA legend. Without these two, there wouldn’t have been Magic Johnson of today.