In the history of the NBA, there are a ton of iconic photos that tell a huge story. The 1987 NBA Slam Dunk Contest with Michael Jordan defying gravity is the first to come to mind. Then there is Magic Johnson’s “Baby Hook,” which has him driving to the basket, and in a clutch movement, he showcased his signature “baby hook” shot, sealing a dramatic victory in Game 4 of the 1987 NBA Finals against Boston Celtics. However, there are some that, while not looking iconic, do have a story to tell. And it involves none other than the “baby hook” genius.

The picture in question is of Magic Johnson squeezing Mateen Cleaves’ cheeks. The photo was taken after the Spartans defeated the Florida Gators 89-76 and won the NCAA men’s basketball championship. Cleaves cleared up the photo’s backstory while appearing as a guest on the ALL THE SMOKE podcast with Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson.

While they were discussing a wide range of things, Jackson brought up the photo and asked Cleaves what was happening. After a long and hysterical laugh, Cleaves said on the podcast, “That’s that dude telling me you him, ‘I’m proud of you.'” And why shouldn’t Johnson be? After all, it was Cleaves who led the Spartans to their first title after 1979. Further, he shone in the first half as he broke through Florida’s press as Michigan State maintained a 43-32 lead. And during the second half, he was their limping leader after he rolled his right ankle.

Furthermore, Cleaves added, “And he told me in that picture, ‘you don’t even realize what you just did.’ He said, you, he said ‘it’s going to get better the older you get. It’s going to get better every year.'” Though Michigan State’s first title was memorable because of Magic Johnson, it was almost certain that the second will be remembered because of Cleaves. Being the senior guard who had missed the first 13 games of the season while recovering from a stress fracture in his right foot, Cleaves was the team’s emotional leader as he again returned to the hardwood after rolling his ankle. Further, Cleaves was even named the MVP of the tournament.

While narrating the backstory, it was clear that this was a huge moment for Cleaves, and both Barnes and Jackson emphasized the gravity of that win. This would be the start of a bond that would stand the test of time.

The Magic Johnson and Mateen Cleaves saga

After bestowing such words of pride on Cleaves, it was clear that Johnson saw something in the rising star. Throughout his career, Johnson continued to show support for Cleaves. While on an interview in September 2014, Johnson said, “The leadership, making players better — Mateen, his leadership and his ability to lead men, they don’t make too many of them.” He added, “And then his understanding of situations — who do I have to get the ball to, when to take over. That has to be born inside you.”

While this was high praise for Cleaves, it came as no surprise that months prior to this, Cleaves had high praise for Johnson. When asked who would be at the top of the Michigan State basketball players list, Cleaves said Johnson is at #1.

“Magic is the guy, he’s someone we all looked up to.” There is no denying that the two men have the utmost respect for each other. Even during a rather dark time in Cleaves’ career, Johnson was the one who vouched for him. This shows that the bond between players transcends the court.