“What Will Michael Jordan Think?”: When Magic Johnson Wondered How Larry Bird and MJ Would React to His HIV Diagnosis

Magic Johnson is an NBA legend. His legacy is one for history. A 6ft 9″ point guard, Johnson was a miracle that propelled the NBA to fame. His rivalry with Larry Bird and their endless battles for supremacy paved the path for what the sport is today.

Apart from Larry, whom Magic Johnson considered a close friend and rival, the Laker legend also maintained close contact with Michael Jordan. In a way, Jordan brought the end of Larry and Magic’s era.

Somewhere, Magic was even envious of all Michael had achieved. Yet, when Magic Johnson came to know of his life-changing diagnosis, he chose to inform MJ and Larry Bird before others. However, he was still concerned with the outcome.

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Magic Johnson was afraid of Larry Bird and Michael Jordan’s reaction

In 1991, right before the new season was to start, Magic was diagnosed with HIV. Upon coming to know, one of his first instructions was to inform Michael Jordan and Larry Bird about it. He wanted them to know what was going on. In case, if the press reached out to them, they’d be well prepared.

However, despite his decision, Johnson couldn’t help but wonder how MJ and Bird would react to the news. In his book ‘When the Game was Ours,’ Johnson detailed the instance in detail.

“As he ticked off the names, Magic paused to consider how each of them would react. They would be stunned, he was certain. Would they also be disappointed? Disgusted? Would it change the level of respect he enjoyed with each of them? “You don’t have a lot of time to think about it, because everything is happening so fast,” Magic said. “But at some point I was wondering, ‘What will Larry think? What will Michael think?'”

Magic played in the Dream Team months after his HIV diagnosis

The Dream Team was formed in 1992 and competed in the Barcelona Olympics. They were exceptional and easily bested all opponents in the tournament.

In fact, the 1992 Dream Team is widely considered to be the greatest team in history. Fortunately, the team gave Johnson the opportunity to join the squad even after the diagnosis.

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