“He Would Beat Us First, Then Grab Us…”: Recalling Magic Johnson’s NCAA ‘Arrogance’, Ex-NBA Star Reveals Lakers Legend’s Teachings

Magic Johnson is a world-renowned and respected name in the world of basketball. With his charisma and skills, he had a fantastic career in the NBA, especially with the Los Angeles Lakers. However, long before he made his name in the league, Earvin ‘Magic’ Johnson made his mark in the NCAA. But some people thought his style of play in college was a bit self-assured.

However, an ex-NBA star recently recalled Magic Johnson’s invaluable teachings and insights.

Magic Johnson’s rise in college basketball

Magic Johnson played college basketball under the guidance of Coach Jud Heathcote at Michigan State. During his freshman year, Johnson showcased his remarkable skills on the court by averaging 17.0 points, 7.9 rebounds and 7.4 assists per game. This outstanding performance by Johnson played a huge role in Michigan State’s success, securing them the Big Ten conference title and a spot in the 1978 NCAA tournament, where they managed to reach the Elite Eight but lost to eventual national champions Kentucky.

But the turning point came in the 1978-79 season. In a historic matchup against Indiana State which was led by the legendary Larry Bird, Johnson and his team emerged victorious, winning 75–64 in the most-watched college basketball game ever. With two successful college years, he maintained impressive averages of 17.1 points, 7.6 rebounds and 7.9 assists per game.

Johnson was known for his charismatic personality, unshakeable self-belief and a unique style of play that combined size, skills and charisma. His confidence and self-assuredness were seen as ‘arrogance’ by many observers, but it was a key part of his identity as a player. In the end it indeed led him to become one of the top players in the NCAA and the first overall pick in the NBA draft of 1979.

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In a recent interview, ex-NBA star Earl Watson opened up about Magic Johnson’s invaluable teachings and insights.

Earl Watson on Magic Johnson’s in-game coaching

Watson, who had the privilege of witnessing Johnson’s impact on the game and players firsthand during his career, revealed that after beating an opponent, Johnson would teach them what they did wrong and how they could improve post-game.

Watson said, “One thing I learned about Magic, and I think what he did for us is he would like teach us the game in the game, but he would beat us first and then grab us and talk to us about what to do and how not to do.”

Earl Watson recalls Magic Johnson’s commitment to getting better and helping others to get better, even after he won, showing how he was an exceptional player and a teacher. This made him even more legendary in the basketball world.

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