Earvin “Magic” Johnson became tearful while discussing his recent endeavor of becoming the first Black co-owner of the NFL Washington Commanders. In conversation with TODAY’s Craig Melvin, Johnson took a moment to gather his emotions as he reflected on how special this moment is for him as a “Proud Black man.”
“This is a great opportunity and I don’t know why God blessed me with these opportunities,” he said while tears filled his eyes and his voice began trembling. “But I’m going to excel, not only for myself and my family, but for all African Americans, making sure we can see ourselves in these seats.”
On July 20, Johnson officially became a co-owner of the Washington Commanders. As co-owner of the NFL team, he now joins a small group of Black owners of NFL teams including businesswoman Mellody Hobson and former Secretary of State, Condoleeza Rice – both of whom are co-owners of the Denver Broncos.
Although a big moment for Johnson, this business deal is only a fraction of the staggering achievements the NBA legend has on his resume.
After winning five NBA championships with the Lakers, where he was also a three-time league MVP, Johnson transitioned from being an NBA superstar to a stellar businessman. Prior to his latest acquisition, Johnson was part owner of the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks, MLB’s Dodgers and Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles FC.
Despite achieving so much in his post-NBA career, July 20 will go down as one of the best days in his life as a result of gaining an ownership stake in the Commanders.
“What a great day! To be an NFL owner of the Washington Commanders, this is one of the greatest days of my life,” he shared on Twitter. The way the fans received us, the way the employees are fired up and the amazing Redskins alumni…WOW. The players are ready to go out and perform on Sunday!”
The week continued to progress for Johnson once he heard rapper Nas titled a song after him on his latest album, “Magic 2.”
“On Nas’s new album Magic 2 he dedicated track 7 to me called Earvin Magic Johnson! Thank you for the respect and honor of my business acumen. You’re a hell of a businessman in your own right!” Johnson tweeted.