“You’ve Been Broke for 18 Years…”: Magic Johnson and Larry Bird’s Iconic College Battle Would’ve Ceased To Exist if Not for Lakers Legend’s Father
The bittersweet relationship between NBA legends Magic Johnson and Larry Bird is one of the most talked about rivalries in the league’s history. Los Angeles Lakers‘ Johnson and Boston Celtics‘ Bird have often faced each other during their time in the league. Their games have been closely followed by the media and fans due to their on-court rivalry. Interestingly, their rivalry began way before the duo were drafted into the league. In fact, NBA fans almost didn’t get to witness their iconic college matchup if it wasn’t for Johnson’s father.
The bittersweet relationship between NBA legends Magic Johnson and Larry Bird is one of the most talked about rivalries in the league’s history. Los Angeles Lakers‘ Johnson and Boston Celtics‘ Bird have often faced each other during their time in the league. Their games have been closely followed by the media and fans due to their on-court rivalry. Interestingly, their rivalry began way before the duo were drafted into the league. In fact, NBA fans almost didn’t get to witness their iconic college matchup if it wasn’t for Johnson’s father.
The epic Magic Johnson-Larry Bird matchup almost didn’t happen
In an exclusive interview with ALL THE SMOKE, 5x NBA champion Magic Johnson talked about his decision to wait one more year before entering the NBA Draft. During an hour-long chat with former NBA stars Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson, Johnson recalled how he was glad that he listened to his dad and turned down Kansas City Kings’ (Sacramento Kings) six-year deal that was worth $200,000 a year.
