In 1991, Magic Johnson‘s HIV diagnosis cast a significant shadow, both in the basketball world and society as a whole. However, while he did retire from the NBA, his relationship with basketball was far from over. His commitment to honor a $3,000,000 deal to play in Spain saw him in Barcelona as a vital member of the 1992 Dream Team.
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His HIV diagnosis left his legacy in tatters, but he found a way to rebuild. The support and camaraderie around him were crucial in this process. The opportunity to join the USA Team and compete for gold became a powerful motivation. But, as Sports Illustrated revealed, while it was a great reason, business was also a factor.
Magic Johnson was a shoo-in for the Dream Team thanks to a $3,000,000 Spanish Deal
Magic Johnson was an integral part of the US Olympic Team that went to Barcelona. His leadership was key in helping the team secure gold and forever changing the history of basketball. However, the allure of creating history was not the only motivation for the five-time NBA Champion.
Johnson had connections with Spain, and a $3,000,000 deal made his presence at the Olympics certain. Magic had an endorsement deal with a Spanish meatpacking company that required his participation in the Games. Sure, winning gold would be great, but being the businessman that he is, he wasn’t just going to back out from such a lucrative deal.
“Johnson has an endorsement contract with a Spanish meatpacking company that is tied to his participation in the Games. Yes, he can see the lure of the gold medal in front of him, but he can also hear the distant ring of the cash register.”
Nevertheless, whether he did it for money or not doesn’t really matter. The team was highly successful, winning the gold. But, how could they not especially given the superstars the USA had assembled in Barcelona?
Magic helped lead the team to glory and had a good payday in the process
Magic Johnson was key in helping the Dream Team achieve gold. Alongside Larry Bird, Michael Jordan, and Karl Malone, the team was unstoppable. In fact, for their efforts, the team was awarded $1 million which they split among themselves. Making Magic’s payday all the sweeter.
It was a great performance all around. And, one that greatly helped improve Magic’s reputation in the wake of the negative image that was associated with him because of his HIV diagnosis.
It truly was a great experience for Johnson. And, he hasn’t looked back since then, finding success both in business and in life. Becoming an advocate for those like him who suffer from the disease, but are looking for purpose.
