With his latest achievement, Magic Johnson continues to break barriers and inspire generations. The 5x NBA champion is honored with the highest civilian award, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, by President Joe Biden at the White House. It’s a historic and emotional moment for the Lakers legend. He shared the rare glimpses with his fans and followers on Instagram. And his friends were quick to flood the comments section with warm wishes for him.

Among the flurry of comments, former pro boxer Evander Holfield was one of the first who dropped a “Congratulations” comment on Johnson’s post. Another important member is the 61st and current mayor of Atlanta, Andre Dickens who also wrote, “Congratulations!!!!” in the comments section. As per White House, this honor is bestowed upon those legendary luminaries who have made great contributions to social public or private endeavors that made an impact in the society. 

Johnson’s efforts to make this world more knowledgeable and better is known to many. The champ already holds several honors to his name. And his family couldn’t be more proud. Former NBA player and ESPN analyst, Jalen Rose also got on the comments section and dropped a few GOAT emojis reflecting on what Johnson meant to the fans and to the world.

As per the biography highlighted by the White House again, many people know Johnson. Some have known him as the legendary Showtime era star who won 5 NBA titles. Some others have known him as a generous man who helped them as a philanthropist or others have known him as a health advocate who raised awareness of HIV and rare diseases or a great businessman building up a billion worth of empire. 

Pau Gasol’s wife Cat Gasol also took to the comments section and wrote, “Woohoo! Cookie deserves half of this award too,” as she tagged the basketball legend’s wife as well. There were other comments praising both Johnson and his wife who had been with him since the beginning.

Cookie Johnson’s wholesome message for husband, Magic Johnson

After his career, Johnson has taken up several different roles such as philanthropist and businessman, but his aim remained the same, to help people. His wife, Cookie Johnson, has put in equal effort in the endeavors. She wrote a heartwarming message to congratulate her husband.  

“Earvin has truly been a vessel of God’s goodness, spreading love, compassion, and hope wherever he goes. I’ve seen firsthand the passion and heart he puts into everything he does, and it’s inspiring to witness the impact he’s had on so many lives over the years,” she wrote.

In the photos that Johnson shared, one showed him shaking hands with the president. Another showed the basketball legend squatting slightly to allow the president to place the medal around his neck. “This award is not just mine; it belongs to everyone who has helped me become the person and businessman I am today—my parents Earvin Sr. and Christine, wife Cookie, my kids Andre, EJ and Elisa; my brothers and sisters, friends, mentors, and colleagues. It also belongs to everyone who has dedicated themselves to the causes of freedom, justice, and equality,” the Los Angeles Lakers legend wrote in the caption expressing gratitude to his family.

Eighteen other honorable contributors in politics, sports, entertainment, civil rights, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and science were honored. Denzel Washington, Michael J. Fox, George Soros, Hillary Clinton, and more were among the notable members honored alongside Johnson.