3 NBA Legends Who Received Presidential Honor Before Magic Johnson

Magic Johnson is in an elite club of NBA stars now; any guesses who else made it to the club already? For those unaware, Johnson has received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Joe Biden. An incredible moment for basketball fans and a testament to Magic’s legacy. Both on and off the court. As most would know, this medal represents the highest civilian honor in the United States.

The recognition is given to the individuals who’ve made a lasting impact on society through their contributions to prosperity, values, and peace. But here’s something you might find interesting: Magic Johnson isn’t the first NBA star to receive this prestigious award. Over the years, other basketball icons have also received honored for their influence far beyond the game. Curious to know who they are? Let’s dive in and explore their incredible achievements!

Bill Russell’s stand for equality impressed former President Barack Obama

When you think of NBA greatness, it’s impossible not to think of Bill Russell. The Boston Celtics legend didn’t just play basketball; he redefined what it meant to win. Doing so, he secured an incredible 11 NBA titles in just 13 seasons between 1956 and 1969.

Oh, and he wasn’t just a player—he also made history as the NBA’s first head coach of color. And boy, was he effective, leading the Celtics to two championships as a player-coach in 1968 and 1969.

But here’s the thing: Russell’s legacy goes far beyond the hardwood. In February 2011, former President Barack Obama presented him with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in the White House. Obama acknowledged the 12x All Star’s basketball achievements, emphasizing those record-breaking 11 championships.

Yet what really stood out was Russ’ impact off the court. Did you know he marched with Martin Luther King Jr.? Or that he stood up for Muhammad Ali during one of the most controversial times in sports history? He even boycotted a game in Kentucky when a coffee shop refused to serve his teammates of color.

The former President captured it perfectly, saying, “He [Russ] endured insults and vandalism, but he kept on focusing on making the teammates who he loved better players.”

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s “one of a kind” on and off the court approach earned him the Presidential Medal of Freedom

What makes a legend? For Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, it’s not just his skyhook or the goggles he famously wore on the court. It was the impact he had both as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer (38,387 points) and as a champion for change off the court.

A 6x NBA champion—once with the Milwaukee Bucks and 5 times with the Los Angeles Lakers—Kareem dominated the game like no other. With 6 MVP awards and a jaw-dropping 19 All-Star appearances, he redefined greatness in basketball. But in 2016, his legacy transcended sports when former President Barack Obama honored him with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

At the White House ceremony, Obama didn’t just celebrate Lew’s basketball achievements, but painted a picture of a man who stood tall for his beliefs. Even when it wasn’t easy. “He stood up for his Muslim faith when it wasn’t easy and wasn’t popular,” the ex-President noted. Thus highlighting the 19x All Star’s courage and eloquence on topics like patriotism and justice.

And yes, Obama couldn’t resist a little humor, calling Kareem “the sport’s most unstoppable force.” And even quoting his hilarious line from Airplane. “He did it all while dragging Walton and Lanier up and down the court for 48 minutes.”

Even after retiring in 1989, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar never stopped making a difference. Whether advocating for civil rights, cancer research, or education, he’s used his platform to inspire change. As Obama put it best, “Physically, intellectually, spiritually—Kareem is one-of-a-kind.” 

Yet another NBA legend to receive this highest civilian honor the same year was arguable GOAT of NBA. Yep, none other than His Airness. 

Michael Jordan has been a figure that transformed the league itself

When you think of basketball greatness, does anyone loom larger than Michael Jordan? The man who turned the Chicago Bulls into a dynasty and gave us moments we’ll never forget has another accolade to his name—being awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Jordan’s career awards and accolades are the stuff of legend. 6 NBA championships, 5 MVP awards, and 14 All-Star appearances are just the top layer of it. And let’s not forget his clutch performances, like that unforgettable game-winning shot against the Utah Jazz in the 1998 NBA Finals. Something that still gives fans chills.

As we all know, he didn’t just play basketball. He turned it into a global obsession with his gravity-defying athleticism. At the ceremony, former President Barack Obama perfectly captured why MJ is more than a player.

“Michael Jordan is the Michael Jordan of greatness,” he said. Think about that for a second. It’s not just about the trophies or the memes—it’s about redefining what’s possible. MJ’s legacy is a reminder that greatness inspires us all.

While there are some other names too in the NBA community who have received this highest civilian honor, the aforementioned names along with Magic Johnson are some of the big names from the league.