The Johnson family and the Robinson family have shared a long, cherished bond over the years, starting with Magic Johnson finding inspiration in the MLB legend. The 12× NBA All-Star, along with his wife Cookie, has continued to embrace this relationship, further cementing their connection by sharing heartfelt wishes to Rachel Robinson on her 102nd birthday.

Magic Johnson took to Instagram to share a special moment with Rachel Robinson, the widow of the late Los Angeles Dodgers legend Jackie Robinson. “Cookie and I want to wish Rachel Robinson a blessed and happy 102nd birthday!” he wrote. This post, capturing the essence of a beautiful relationship, came as the 5× NBA champion was enjoying his holidays in Italy with Cookie and their kids, adding a personal touch to his public admiration for Rachel.

Moreover, MLB did not miss the chance to shower love and admiration for the late 6× All-Star champ’s wife on her birthday. They shared on Instagram, “Wishing a happy 102nd birthday to the revered Rachel Robinson, founder of the Jackie Robinson Foundation,” with a red heart emoji.

Similarly, the Los Angeles Dodgers extended their heartfelt wishes to Rachel on Twitter, stating, “Please join us in wishing a happy 102nd birthday to the incomparable Rachel Robinson!” Interestingly, Magic Johnson, who bought a 2.3% stake in the Dodgers back in 2012, is now intertwined with the legacy of the team, making his tribute to Rachel even more significant.

Furthermore, the Jackie Robinson Foundation also shared their wishes to Rachel on Facebook and shared his life stories. Rachel Robinson’s contributions extend far beyond being the widow of a baseball legend. A professor and nurse by profession, she founded the Jackie Robinson Foundation after Jackie’s untimely death. This national non-profit organization, established in 1973, provides scholarships to minority youths for higher education and works to preserve Jackie Robinson’s legacy.

Honoring a Legacy: Magic Johnson Reflects on Jackie and Rachel Robinson’s Impact

While celebrating the legacy of Jackie Robinson on April 15, 77 years after Robinson’s Major League Baseball debut, Los Angeles Lakers legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson spoke about the significance of Robinson’s contributions to his life. “I couldn’t be an owner of the Dodgers without Jackie breaking the color barrier, you know,” he said. This heartfelt acknowledgment underscores the profound influence Jackie Robinson had on paving the way for future generations in sports and beyond.

Moreover, Magic highlighted the crucial role Rachel Robinson played in MLB history. He stressed that because of Jackie and Rachel, it’s “a great day for baseball and for the Dodgers,” emphasizing on the unity they brought into the sport.

Jackie and Rachel were married for 26 years before the former succumbed to heart disease and diabetes in 1972. Rachel was a notable force in the MLB legend’s life as he stirred the norms, unaware of the impeccable impact it would bear further. “He had a wonderful support system and a wonderful partnership with my mother (Rachel) and… Branch Rickey, so he persevered and was successful. Not to mention an incredible talent,” son Sharon told Dodgers Insider.

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