As a long time celtics fan , i wish they woulda gave this man a full ceremony like larry had and not during halftime of a game, those 2 guys saved the nba..period!
Look at the faces of his teammates. They thought he was a goner. They organized this in a hurry because nobody was sure he would be around for long in a condition that he could enjoy it in.
Larry didn’t want the ceremony. At all!! The NBA pitched it to him as a way to support his favorite charity. That was the reason they did it and that is why Bird said yes.
That ovation for Bird was simply about respect. Those fans know that he and Magic saved the NBA in the 1980's. Boston did the same for Magic a year later at Larry's retirement ceremony.
@M You have to wonder about a person so stupid as to think that soccer is actually better than basketball just because there are so many people around the world, with so little going on in their lives that that the slowness of soccer actually excites them.
As a Celtics fan, I have so much admiration for Magic... The way he talks, that smile, so genuine ! Thank God he is still with us!!!! We who grew up watching him and Bird play are the luckiest people on this planet!!
@@capitanfuturo594 💯 I remember watching them as they came into the NBA and watched their whole careers... Those two men made the NBA watchable again....
A special point in time that is impossible to recapture. So used to only college players playing in the Olympics. And now the absolute best pros can compete also.
Watched that live and got chills. After the 1988 debacle, everyone was stoked that we were sending our best, and after Magic's unfortunate retirement, everyone wanted to see a Gold Medal and playing on the same team as Larry as the ultimate coda for his career.
@M even if that's true, why don't you respect the fact that ppl came here to watch a ceremony dedicated to a gret basketball player. Completely out of touch your comment.
Celtics fan here: Magic was not only one of the all-time greats and a truly class act, but his warmth as a human being came through even to people like me who never met him.
Well said. Lifelong Celtic and Bird fanatic. Magic is a very hard guy not to love. And boy the friendship and love Bird has for him I’ve never seen in such competitors. That tells us all greatness- recognizes greatness. Polarizing.
Magic Johnson had HIV....it had not gone to full blown AIDs thank goodness! He was extremely fortunate to find the right medication that worked for him at that time! 🙏
they did this ceremony when they did due to Magics illness, not many there that day would have believed he would be still with us, grin glowing as always and as good as ever 25 years later. what a legend.
9:02 - As a lifetime Boston man, having grown up watching Magic and Bird go at it, it almost makes me wanna cry seeing the Los Angeles crowd give Larry Bird such a great ovation. Even more than that, Magic Johnson hadn't really smiled at ALL until Larry came up to the microphone. That alone speaks volumes to how these two guys feel about each other.
I was lucky to be at many of those games between Magic and Larry; Row 10, Boston Garden.. We always wanted to see our Celtics win, especially against those Lakers because they were the top contender. Boston fans always respected Magic, Kareem, Coooooooooper, Worthy and the rest of L.A.'s team. But it was war so we hat to hate em', but in a way we loved em' too. We knew we were witnessing something special, and the Lakers were half of it. Magic and Larry saved the NBA, and B-ball hasn't been the same since.
It’s so awesome to see that two bitter rivals really just were showing each other the highest level of respect. Also great to see an anxious Magic just completely light up when Larry is there with him on the stage.
Every single current NBA player needs to pay homage to Magic Johnson and Larry Bird. Those two single-handedly saved the NBA! The style they played with combined with the leadership and competitiveness they displayed got the NBA back on track in the 80s.
I was watching this live and my heart was sad. Magic at this point of his career, still had plenty of basketball left in him and it was cut short. Nonetheless I’m grateful to have witnessed the most beautiful basketball that I’ve ever seen in my lifetime. It’s because of the “Showtime” Lakers, I became a fan of this wonderful game called “basketball.” Thank you Magic for your amazing contribution to this wonderful game. God bless!
maaan... magic and larry... absolute class... absolute legends... love those guys i feel for magic here... the guy should be celebrating an incredible career, but instead it looks like his heart is heavy and his mind is on other things, for obvious reasons.... cant even imagine what he's going through here... so glad hes still with us!
Stevie B who'da thought Magic would've received a standing ovation at the Boston Garden when they retired Larry Bird's jersey. Celtics v. Lakers. Bird v. Magic. Basketball hasn't been the same since they retired.
Incredible tribute 👏 So much emotion! Magic thanking his Parents is beyond words touching! Thank you Magic for all the wonderful memories! As good a player as you were, you're a better man !!! CJ Smith
Who would've thought that Magic's ceremony would be so stiff and Larry's would be so touching. I guess Larry stole one from the Magic man. We miss you guys.
This was a game night and they were playing the Celts. Bird was the only one making a special trip because he was injured. Magic got normal treatment ( jersey retirement at half time of a game). Bird is the only one that had a whole night for his retirement.
Magic has always worn his emotions on his sleeve. No doubt he's been that way since he was a small child. On the other hand Bird is stoic and suppresses all shows of sentimentality or emotional pain. Yet when Magic begins talking about how Bird and the Celtics forced the Lakers to play at the highest level and thanks Larry for personally bringing out the best in Magic, watch the incredibly subtle microexpressions play over Bird's face. A swallow. And then the faintest of smiles -- but not on the mouth -- but solely in the eyes -- as Magic finishes. Two great athletes who were at the pinnacle of skill and competitiveness. They played the same way, but their temperaments were radically different. First, they were foes. And then great friends. To the point that when Magic was diagnosed with HIV, Larry was right at the top of the list for him to personally call.
Wow, when bird comes out the smile and pure joy not only on magics face but also birds what a beautiful thing reminds me of a song by three dog night. I’ll leave a line here…….. The ink is black,the page is white, together We learn to read and write
During a Celtics game. What a great thing that both teams could be together for this. History in my lifetime, for sure. Chilling to see Bird, Cooper and Kareem sitting together and Worthy, Scott, Chief and McHale on the court. What a slice in time.
The reception for my all time superstar player Larry bird was nerve tingling, the magic of Johnson was simply superb such a special man,great to see legends pay respect to this man.
You could tell Magic wanted Larry up there longer, standing by his side. With all that Magic was going through, then, Larry was a safe space. That, friends, is a testament to character.
Larry would have started crying ,cause he said when he found out ,he did cry ,@birds ceremony the garden gave magic so much love ❤, love that they are truly close friends, and this from a die hard bird fan ,but you can't love and respect one and not the other ❤
I still remember how heartbreaking this was. Earvin's and Larry's faces still make me cry. I'm so grateful they're both still doing great. No one thought Magic would be with us now.
Who would've thought that Magic's ceremony would be so stiff and Larry's would be so touching. I guess Larry stole one from the Magic man. We miss you guys.
Two very humble guys competing at the highest level every time. They single handily saved the game of basketball and took it to the world! Thank you Larry, Magic and your parents! Amen 🙏
Truly special. The timing of the camera on to Bird's face just after the great Jerry West said that he was the best player he'd ever seen. The depth of the pairs friendship is a small token, beautiful as it is when measured against the immense joy the pair gave, and still give to us.
My parents met, dated, and got married all in 1983. My is mom Lakers fan and dad a Celtics fan. Born in 1984 and raised in SoCal and love ❤️ both franchises! Got teary eyed seeing Mr. Chick Hearn.
I was always a Celtics fan because of my Dad who told me of the great teams that came before Bird. His favorite was Cousy but by the time he saw Larry Legend play he changed his mind on who the greatest was. I hated Magic, not the man but the Laker. Everything about Magic was easy to like. Great smile, great player, friendly man to all and he was great for the Los Angeles community, but I hated him when the Celtics and Lakers played. I believe we who witnessed them in their prime saw the absolute best that basketball can ever be. Geez, when I think about the players in that era: Dominique Wilkens, Barkley, Isaiah Thomas, Malone, Ewing, Dr. J, Iceman Gervin, Rodman, Worthy, Jordan, Mullins, Stockton, Jabaar, , Drexler, Sikma, Dantley, Bernard King, Olajuwon, Moncrief, Lambeer, and Magic. I know I must have missed some but what a great bunch of opponents! I love Larry and Magic as if I knew them personally because they played the game in a way that not only honored the game but they honored the fans by giving their all year in and out. I barely even watch anymore, the game lost its edge. Where is the passion and courage? Maybe I just got spoiled watching the best that ever played.
@@Евгений-х5у I agree, sorry I missed him but he was a great one but was overlooked because of Jordan. I knew I would miss some because there were so many fine players then.
I'm kind of amused when they talk about the supposed lack of athleticism in that era. Look at some of the people on that list Nique, Michael, Bernard King, Clyde Drexler, Hakeem, there were some athletes for sure.
@@danielconniff5300 I lived in Michigan for a while. One of the managers where I worked went to Msu with him. Those were geeatdaysfor basketball, for sure.
Ya'll jus don't know how scary it was for NBA fans in the early 90's, Magic was so beloved. We were all so scared for him as HIV was a death sentence at that time! We are so blessed to still have this great champion in our midst!👏👏👏
Look at his face. The difference between choosing to retire and HAVING to retire - like here. Sad time, but he came back. Dream team and more and still around today, and that's great.
I remember watching this like yesterday. It was like watching a funeral with the person alive. No one thought he'd still be here. That was a hard time for basketball fans.
When Magic and Kareem were Lakers.I was a huge lakers fan.Good to see this and now the Lakers are back!! In championship contention again too.Go lakers.
I absolutely hated this basketball player. I wished he would get sick and never play. But I am SO glad when he did because he and Bird MADE the NBA what its today. I am glad that Larry and Magic became GREAT, loyal friends.
Magic Johnson is not only my favorite athlete of All Time, he is 1 of my very favorite people of all time ! I idolize Stevie Wonder & Rick James, but Magic, Malcom X, Bruce Lee & The Jacksons(including Jermaine), aren't too far behind .
Thing about Magic and Bird vs most.. these 2 legends fought hard against each other.. loved to hate each other.. hated to love each other.. and became proof that salt and pepper are the 2 best seasonings ever.. both men of heart that always put it on full display.. these two are the REAL best of the best.. role models.. the NBA will never have another Bird-Magic rivalry turned so sweet ever again...
Magic Johnson is the greatest "Winner" in N.B.A. basketball history. His mere presence on the court, gave his teammates new found confidence and an aura of invincibility !!!
@@alzinn8231 somehow I don't think he meant winner LITERALLY.....Heck Kareem had more rings too!!! I think he meant the winning, the attitude, the will to win, the fact that him and bird literally saved the NBA in the 80s....and his infectious personality....yes in actuality Russell statistically was the 'greatest winner'....but he didn't affect the NBA like magic did....
I'm 62.. Born in Redondo Beach CA....grew up in Indpls. In.... Boston/Bird fan......but..' I love Majic Johnson....so talented, so respectful, so warrior like..... I'll never forget the showtime Lakers....and Boston Celtic's.....Bird and Majic......never..........God Bless Magic Johnson and Larry Bird....and America....' 🇺🇸💀🎅😇😁💟
And? Bird was shy he cant do no big speeches in public. Magic is a show man and way more outgoing. Doesn't mean that Bird doesn't respect him as much as Magic does Bird. Why somebody always try to make something negative out of something positive?
Bottom line is Magic knew .. He knew he had a friend for life .. Two public sentences don't make a difference cz even when it came to his hall of fame induction Larry was the one who was on stage with him.. Magic and Larry were like two warriors who saved the league and the legends live on forever.. They are forever will be the Kings of NBA's modern era.. The chapter of modern era starts from them..
I think Magic is the best of all time. He nearly avg. a triple-double, and even played center and still scored 42 points with 15 boards. If Lebron or Jordan only scored 10 points, you would likely think their team was going to lose the game, Magic brought something different though to the game, the court was a chess board and he knew where every piece was - he made the entire team better with his style of play. He could have an off night and only score only 10 points but the Lakers were dangerous because their best player didn't have to score 40 - 50 points to win. That's what made him special.
Celtics fan here. I saw 2 people pass better than Larry Legend. Bob Cousy and the greatest passer EVER Magic Johnson who like Bird saw the game on a completely different level. Magic would still be the best passer even today, and i'm glad we all got to see him play. This was sad to watch back then cuz we thought Magic's days were numbered, but Magic battled and even beat HIV. I saw Celtic's fans crying when watching this, but Magic still here and all of basketball was better for it. P.S. Bill Laimbeer sucks!
I remember this... This was nice, but in all honesty the entire league should've been able to honor Magic. Just remember people, before him and Bird, the playoffs and finals were taped! TAPED!!! Then played later on TV. First player to make a million dollars a year, and absolutely put on a show every All-Star game.. And the Magic summer games. I understand having the Celtics there for a game, but I think they would've showed up regardless. This should've been so much more.
Thank you God for Mr Magic Johnson's Humbleness !!!!! And May the Greatness of God shine Always 🙏 upon you and your family !!!!!! And Beautiful wife !!!!!!! God Bless her heart !!!!! for Loving you threw thick and thin !!!!!! She's not only beautiful !!!! She's send from God above !!!!! God 🙏🤗 your Handsome Son !!!!! I Look up to you !!!! My Mentor !!!!! Your sister in Christ !!!!!! Maribel 😇
Chick Hearn was good friends with Celtics 🍀 broadcaster Johnny Most. Johnny passed away in 1992 and Chick 🐥 used to say he wouldn't be inducted into the HOF unless Johnny was inducted as well. Chick is now gone but he was inducted in the HOF but sadly Johnny still isn't 🙁
2 of the greatest players ever. Absolite enemies on the court. 1 black, 1 white. Why the hell in the 2020s ....is it still about race. The love between these two shows how much sport brings us all together. We shoild all ne greatful for everyone whom played up till today. Other than that. What an absolute stand out of legends in this video. ....
I mean you got a watch the Larry Bird retirement ceremony as well when Magic came up on stage Boston cheered for him to because they just made each other better they were like gentlemen and I just remember those old games in always had mad respect for Magic Johnson even though I was a Celtics fan because I always felt like he made Larry Bird better and I think Larry Bird made him better too they were both awesome and it was just great
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
As a long time celtics fan , i wish they woulda gave this man a full ceremony like larry had and not during halftime of a game, those 2 guys saved the nba..period!
I TOTALLY AGREE
Look at the faces of his teammates. They thought he was a goner. They organized this in a hurry because nobody was sure he would be around for long in a condition that he could enjoy it in.
Larry didn’t want the ceremony. At all!!
The NBA pitched it to him as a way to support his favorite charity. That was the reason they did it and that is why Bird said yes.
💯💯💯 I agree ,and I'm a 🐦 bird fan ,but magic deserved a full ceremony like bird had ❤🌷🌷🌷 give the man his flowers 💐
THEY DID
That ovation for Bird was simply about respect. Those fans know that he and Magic saved the NBA in the 1980's. Boston did the same for Magic a year later at Larry's retirement ceremony.
CLASS ACTS. Both men.
Both teams
@M 2100 A.D.? I'm glad I'll be dead.
@M You have to wonder about a person so stupid as to think that soccer is actually better than basketball just because there are so many people around the world, with so little going on in their lives that that the slowness of soccer actually excites them.
I was gonna say. Bird didn't always get applause in LA
yes. and earlier Kareem got a large ovation at Boston.
The ovation for Bird here and the ovation for Magic @ Larry's retirement. So much respect.
The dynamics between Magic and Kareem is pure gold: ever the hugger, Magic is crying in his idol's arms. I became a Laker fan because of these two.
As a Celtics fan, I have so much admiration for Magic... The way he talks, that smile, so genuine ! Thank God he is still with us!!!! We who grew up watching him and Bird play are the luckiest people on this planet!!
Agree
Bird and Magic saved the NBA.
*Not Jordan.*
@@capitanfuturo594 💯
I remember watching them as they came into the NBA and watched their whole careers... Those two men made the NBA watchable again....
Facts!
I loved when Larry said he's not done because we're gonna go to Barcelona and bring back the gold for the United States. What a ride that was.
A special point in time that is impossible to recapture. So used to only college players playing in the Olympics. And now the absolute best pros can compete also.
Watched that live and got chills. After the 1988 debacle, everyone was stoked that we were sending our best, and after Magic's unfortunate retirement, everyone wanted to see a Gold Medal and playing on the same team as Larry as the ultimate coda for his career.
@M 2070 A.D.? I'm glad I'll be dead.
@M even if that's true, why don't you respect the fact that ppl came here to watch a ceremony dedicated to a gret basketball player. Completely out of touch your comment.
@M wrong place for your bs. Take it over to some soccer group that cares. We don't here.
Celtics fan here: Magic was not only one of the all-time greats and a truly class act, but his warmth as a human being came through even to people like me who never met him.
Well said. Lifelong Celtic and Bird fanatic. Magic is a very hard guy not to love. And boy the friendship and love Bird has for him I’ve never seen in such competitors. That tells us all greatness- recognizes greatness. Polarizing.
This had me crying like a baby. So many years later and he's still here with us🙌🙌🙌GOD IS GOOD
I was just thinking the same thing long live Earvin MAGIC Johnson !!!
You don’t know him at all, yet you speak as if him breathing is an act of God. Clueless, ridiculous televangelist…
You can sense that everybody there thought he was going to die soon. Glad he is still with us..
Legends never die 👊
Crazy how life works.
3 years after kobe retired both his jersey''s he just tragically dies!
Everyone definitely thought he’d be dead soon. Even Magic. AIDS was a death sentence in the early 90’s.
Magic Johnson had HIV....it had not gone to full blown AIDs thank goodness! He was extremely fortunate to find the right medication that worked for him at that time! 🙏
damn shame that magic & larry had to retire early. love em both.
they did this ceremony when they did due to Magics illness, not many there that day would have believed he would be still with us, grin glowing as always and as good as ever 25 years later. what a legend.
Go back in time and tell someone in 2000 that Magic would outlive Kobe and they’d say your crazy.
@@awc6007 . Sad but true.
9:02 - As a lifetime Boston man, having grown up watching Magic and Bird go at it, it almost makes me wanna cry seeing the Los Angeles crowd give Larry Bird such a great ovation.
Even more than that, Magic Johnson hadn't really smiled at ALL until Larry came up to the microphone. That alone speaks volumes to how these two guys feel about each other.
Bird was so right in making the effort to be there, no matter what the doctors advised him.
@@cindyknudson2715 - I doubt Bird would have ever forgiven himself if he hadn't made the trip. Magic was absolutely worth it.
I was lucky to be at many of those games between Magic and Larry; Row 10, Boston Garden.. We always wanted to see our Celtics win, especially against those Lakers because they were the top contender. Boston fans always respected Magic, Kareem, Coooooooooper, Worthy and the rest of L.A.'s team. But it was war so we hat to hate em', but in a way we loved em' too. We knew we were witnessing something special, and the Lakers were half of it. Magic and Larry saved the NBA, and B-ball hasn't been the same since.
It’s so awesome to see that two bitter rivals really just were showing each other the highest level of respect. Also great to see an anxious Magic just completely light up when Larry is there with him on the stage.
This is beautiful for Bird to honor Magic at this award of retirement of his jersey. # 32 The greatest point guard to play the game.
Cookie is not just a very beautiful woman she is an incredible woman.
Bird ovation gave me chills. wow! 8:42
Every single current NBA player needs to pay homage to Magic Johnson and Larry Bird. Those two single-handedly saved the NBA! The style they played with combined with the leadership and competitiveness they displayed got the NBA back on track in the 80s.
I was watching this live and my heart was sad. Magic at this point of his career, still had plenty of basketball left in him and it was cut short. Nonetheless I’m grateful to have witnessed the most beautiful basketball that I’ve ever seen in my lifetime. It’s because of the “Showtime” Lakers, I became a fan of this wonderful game called “basketball.” Thank you Magic for your amazing contribution to this wonderful game. God bless!
One of the greatest to lace em up! My 3 favorite players in my lifetime Bird, Magic and Jordan!
There's a reason why they call him Magic. The greatest Player ever. Made teammates better. Now that's great. Basketball is a team sport.
Ethan Ahoia he was just described as magic when someone asked him do describe johonsen in one word, but I still agree with you
@EJ thanks for sharing
Greatest player? No but he’s on Mount Rushmore with Bird, Kareem, and MJ
@EJ piece of shit is U
@@kneegrow8173 Lol. Jordan. Mchale and Bird used to toy with the guy. He never could get past them
Mad respect to Kareem you seen how much he ment to Magic with that emotional embrace absolute legends, Kareem could easily be considered the GOAT!
Larry getting respect from L.A.
maaan... magic and larry... absolute class... absolute legends... love those guys
i feel for magic here... the guy should be celebrating an incredible career, but instead it looks like his heart is heavy and his mind is on other things, for obvious reasons.... cant even imagine what he's going through here... so glad hes still with us!
There's a bit of a funeral/wake feeling to it. 😢 His illness overshadowed things.
Who would have thought Larry Bird would get a standing ovation in the Forum! :)
i wonder what magic mouthed to larry when they hugged it looks like he said," i miss you".
Stevie B who'da thought Magic would've received a standing ovation at the Boston Garden when they retired Larry Bird's jersey. Celtics v. Lakers. Bird v. Magic. Basketball hasn't been the same since they retired.
Because he could beat you in so many ways!@@phoponlinechurch1396
@EJ I don't think Magic was married when he was with the women
Magic did at Larry's retirement
10:00 - Larry basically telling the rest of the world not to bother making the trip to Barcelona.
RUclips is really a time machine.. What a wonder that we can experience this all these years later, as it happened
Incredible tribute 👏
So much emotion!
Magic thanking his Parents is beyond words touching!
Thank you Magic for all the wonderful memories!
As good a player as you were, you're a better man !!!
CJ Smith
The Lakers people in standing ovation to Larry Bird si proceless
That's respect they have for the most hated enemy of the Lakers during the 80s.
Who would've thought that Magic's ceremony would be so stiff and Larry's would be so touching. I guess Larry stole one from the Magic man. We miss you guys.
My two favorite basketball players of all time and they were the best! They brought the best to the NBA...
Idk what to say after watching this...player, legend, icon, and MAN...he IS the greatest!!!
It was great seeing and hearing the forum's standing ovation for Larry Bird. Two men and two teams that had great battles together.
The whole Celtics team out there now that’s respect
This was a game night and they were playing the Celts. Bird was the only one making a special trip because he was injured.
Magic got normal treatment ( jersey retirement at half time of a game).
Bird is the only one that had a whole night for his retirement.
Magic has always worn his emotions on his sleeve. No doubt he's been that way since he was a small child. On the other hand Bird is stoic and suppresses all shows of sentimentality or emotional pain. Yet when Magic begins talking about how Bird and the Celtics forced the Lakers to play at the highest level and thanks Larry for personally bringing out the best in Magic, watch the incredibly subtle microexpressions play over Bird's face. A swallow. And then the faintest of smiles -- but not on the mouth -- but solely in the eyes -- as Magic finishes.
Two great athletes who were at the pinnacle of skill and competitiveness. They played the same way, but their temperaments were radically different. First, they were foes. And then great friends. To the point that when Magic was diagnosed with HIV, Larry was right at the top of the list for him to personally call.
Wow, when bird comes out the smile and pure joy not only on magics face but also birds what a beautiful thing reminds me of a song by three dog night. I’ll leave a line here……..
The ink is black,the page is white, together We learn to read and write
God damnnnnnnnnnn Mrs Johnson. All the mims out there supporting their kids and making them grow. THANK YOU!!!!
During a Celtics game. What a great thing that both teams could be together for this.
History in my lifetime, for sure.
Chilling to see Bird, Cooper and Kareem sitting together and Worthy, Scott, Chief and McHale on the court.
What a slice in time.
The golden age, esp for us Celtic, laker and Philly fans. Incredible seeing wilt there too
if you don't love these two you are very sick. Magic best guard at point ever.
Kareem's speech was lovely!
wow, elgin, wilt kareem and jerry attend your own ceremony, you KNOW you'r eone of the greatest. wow!
they were having their jerseys retired too
@@SpecificPT Theirs we're already retired
You forgot the most important one of all Larry Bird
Magic was great but he had that star quality about him.Enthusiatic charming energy.
yes he was, you know your great when some of the "GREATIST" attend your retirement.....
Still with us September 2023
The reception for my all time superstar player Larry bird was nerve tingling, the magic of Johnson was simply superb such a special man,great to see legends pay respect to this man.
You could tell Magic wanted Larry up there longer, standing by his side. With all that Magic was going through, then, Larry was a safe space. That, friends, is a testament to character.
Larry would have started crying ,cause he said when he found out ,he did cry ,@birds ceremony the garden gave magic so much love ❤, love that they are truly close friends, and this from a die hard bird fan ,but you can't love and respect one and not the other ❤
I still remember how heartbreaking this was. Earvin's and Larry's faces still make me cry. I'm so grateful they're both still doing great. No one thought Magic would be with us now.
I’m so thankful that Magic is still with us.
Who would've thought that Magic's ceremony would be so stiff and Larry's would be so touching. I guess Larry stole one from the Magic man. We miss you guys.
Magic’s natural warmth was a huge part Larry’s ceremony.
Magic's retirement felt like a funeral dirge. Bird's felt like a night of celebration.
It is hard to remember but HIV was considered a death sentence back then. It brought an air of futile humanity to the proceedings.
@@RichV20 They sold out the Boston Garden on Larry Bird night. The Celtics weren't even playing that evening.
Two very humble guys competing at the highest level every time. They single handily saved the game of basketball and took it to the world!
Thank you Larry, Magic and your parents! Amen 🙏
Great ceremony. I was a little disappointed, however, that Wilt didn't get to speak.
I lost it when he and Kareem hugged #LEGENDS
Greatest duo ever... So much mutual respect... It's a pity Shaq and Kobe couldn't take a leaf out their books... That was a class act
Truly special. The timing of the camera on to Bird's face just after the great Jerry West said that he was the best player he'd ever seen. The depth of the pairs friendship is a small token, beautiful as it is when measured against the immense joy the pair gave, and still give to us.
My parents met, dated, and got married all in 1983. My is mom Lakers fan and dad a Celtics fan. Born in 1984 and raised in SoCal and love ❤️ both franchises! Got teary eyed seeing Mr. Chick Hearn.
I was always a Celtics fan because of my Dad who told me of the great teams that came before Bird. His favorite was Cousy but by the time he saw Larry Legend play he changed his mind on who the greatest was. I hated Magic, not the man but the Laker. Everything about Magic was easy to like. Great smile, great player, friendly man to all and he was great for the Los Angeles community, but I hated him when the Celtics and Lakers played. I believe we who witnessed them in their prime saw the absolute best that basketball can ever be. Geez, when I think about the players in that era: Dominique Wilkens, Barkley, Isaiah Thomas, Malone, Ewing, Dr. J, Iceman Gervin, Rodman, Worthy, Jordan, Mullins, Stockton, Jabaar, , Drexler, Sikma, Dantley, Bernard King, Olajuwon, Moncrief, Lambeer, and Magic. I know I must have missed some but what a great bunch of opponents! I love Larry and Magic as if I knew them personally because they played the game in a way that not only honored the game but they honored the fans by giving their all year in and out. I barely even watch anymore, the game lost its edge. Where is the passion and courage? Maybe I just got spoiled watching the best that ever played.
Pippen
@@Евгений-х5у I agree, sorry I missed him but he was a great one but was overlooked because of Jordan. I knew I would miss some because there were so many fine players then.
I'm kind of amused when they talk about the supposed lack of athleticism in that era. Look at some of the people on that list Nique, Michael, Bernard King, Clyde Drexler, Hakeem, there were some athletes for sure.
@@alzinn8231 I completely agree.
@@danielconniff5300 I lived in Michigan for a while. One of the managers where I worked went to Msu with him. Those were geeatdaysfor basketball, for sure.
Just noticed Coop was still guarding Larry.
Lol, literally just noticed that. Perfect comment right here
You could tell...the boy truly loves his mama!
Magic has a great heart n love for his family. The fans n people. I love When he opened the mv theatre in Atlanta.
Ya'll jus don't know how scary it was for NBA fans in the early 90's, Magic was so beloved.
We were all so scared for him as HIV was a death sentence at that time!
We are so blessed to still have this great champion in our midst!👏👏👏
Look at his face. The difference between choosing to retire and HAVING to retire - like here. Sad time, but he came back. Dream team and more and still around today, and that's great.
He is the reason why this franchise is golden. I personally think without magic this franchise is irrelevant
I remember watching this like yesterday. It was like watching a funeral with the person alive. No one thought he'd still be here. That was a hard time for basketball fans.
When Magic and Kareem were Lakers.I was a huge lakers fan.Good to see this and now the Lakers are back!! In championship contention again too.Go lakers.
I meet magic Johnson in New York City 66 an Broadway at the movies he was very nice to me I will never forget the man he is thank you magic Johnson
Robert Braxton
Larry Bird : "thank you" = "shut up"
More evident in his hall of fame speech
Actually I think it was the "ok" lol
I absolutely hated this basketball player. I wished he would get sick and never play. But I am SO glad when he did because he and Bird MADE the NBA what its today. I am glad that Larry and Magic became GREAT, loyal friends.
Magic Johnson is not only my favorite athlete of All Time, he is 1 of my very favorite people of all time ! I idolize Stevie Wonder & Rick James, but Magic, Malcom X, Bruce Lee & The Jacksons(including Jermaine), aren't too far behind .
I was a Senior in High School and remember this like yesterday. 46 now... I was in tears! 😥
Thing about Magic and Bird vs most.. these 2 legends fought hard against each other.. loved to hate each other.. hated to love each other.. and became proof that salt and pepper are the 2 best seasonings ever.. both men of heart that always put it on full display.. these two are the REAL best of the best.. role models.. the NBA will never have another Bird-Magic rivalry turned so sweet ever again...
I never seen so many greats and legends all in one place... That's magic.
Anyone else cry when they gave the ovation to Bird?
I sure did
No, but Kareem made sure that happened anyway.
One thing I know for sure, Best NBA MC of all time, Chick Hearn.
I watched it live in 92’ & still get emotional watching it now. Can’t believe 31 years have passed already!
Magic deserves it
Magic Johnson is the greatest "Winner" in N.B.A. basketball history. His mere presence on the court, gave his teammates new found confidence and an aura of invincibility !!!
What about Bill Russell? He has 11 rings and a few of those came at the expense of Wilt Chamberlain.
He had skill but he also had that energetic confident aura and a winning smile to go with it. Like the spark.
Larry Bird right there with Magic. Only 10 games apart.
Nzinn73 I am a Celtics fan but I love Majic. But Yeah, 11 rings says Bill Russell is the greatest winner, I would think.
@@alzinn8231 somehow I don't think he meant winner LITERALLY.....Heck Kareem had more rings too!!! I think he meant the winning, the attitude, the will to win, the fact that him and bird literally saved the NBA in the 80s....and his infectious personality....yes in actuality Russell statistically was the 'greatest winner'....but he didn't affect the NBA like magic did....
You can see him trying to hold back tears the whole time
Look at those people Wilt, K-A-Jabbar, West, Baylor, Magic, Bird what a legends in one place.... omg!!
i love to sit and spend hours watching this type of videos.... specially lakers and magic ones haha
Awesome Vid Jerry , Thank you !
Dunno why when Kareem says all of our lives have been enriched by him, it still gets to me to this day. Cap and buck. Love them
Damn I was in tears when I saw wilt chamberlain
Magic and bird. Bird and magic ❤ Mrs cookie u have a man
I'm 62.. Born in Redondo Beach CA....grew up in Indpls. In.... Boston/Bird fan......but..' I love Majic Johnson....so talented, so respectful, so warrior like..... I'll never forget the showtime Lakers....and Boston Celtic's.....Bird and Majic......never..........God Bless Magic Johnson and Larry Bird....and America....' 🇺🇸💀🎅😇😁💟
Even at magic own retirement he still gave better respect to bird
And? Bird was shy he cant do no big speeches in public. Magic is a show man and way more outgoing. Doesn't mean that Bird doesn't respect him as much as Magic does Bird. Why somebody always try to make something negative out of something positive?
Bottom line is Magic knew .. He knew he had a friend for life .. Two public sentences don't make a difference cz even when it came to his hall of fame induction Larry was the one who was on stage with him.. Magic and Larry were like two warriors who saved the league and the legends live on forever.. They are forever will be the Kings of NBA's modern era.. The chapter of modern era starts from them..
Pure class.
I think Magic is the best of all time. He nearly avg. a triple-double, and even played center and still scored 42 points with 15 boards. If Lebron or Jordan only scored 10 points, you would likely think their team was going to lose the game, Magic brought something different though to the game, the court was a chess board and he knew where every piece was - he made the entire team better with his style of play. He could have an off night and only score only 10 points but the Lakers were dangerous because their best player didn't have to score 40 - 50 points to win. That's what made him special.
Thank you Magic for the great memories
There is actually a shot of Larry! Kareem! Jerry! Elgin! AND Wilt!!
I'm dead!😨😨😨
Celtics fan here. I saw 2 people pass better than Larry Legend. Bob Cousy and the greatest passer EVER Magic Johnson who like Bird saw the game on a completely different level. Magic would still be the best passer even today, and i'm glad we all got to see him play. This was sad to watch back then cuz we thought Magic's days were numbered, but Magic battled and even beat HIV. I saw Celtic's fans crying when watching this, but Magic still here and all of basketball was better for it. P.S. Bill Laimbeer sucks!
Larry Tipton
Don't doubt magic. Look what he just did with the lakers in 18 months. Easy, compared to HIV
Best passer ever. I agree. So surgical and pinpoint with a minimum of exertion. Fun to watch as well. I'm also Celtics fan saying that.
Larry is the best passer *I* ever saw.
I remember this... This was nice, but in all honesty the entire league should've been able to honor Magic. Just remember people, before him and Bird, the playoffs and finals were taped! TAPED!!! Then played later on TV. First player to make a million dollars a year, and absolutely put on a show every All-Star game.. And the Magic summer games. I understand having the Celtics there for a game, but I think they would've showed up regardless. This should've been so much more.
Thank you God for Mr Magic Johnson's Humbleness !!!!! And May the Greatness of God shine Always 🙏 upon you and your family !!!!!! And Beautiful wife !!!!!!! God Bless her heart !!!!! for Loving you threw thick and thin !!!!!! She's not only beautiful !!!! She's send from God above !!!!! God 🙏🤗 your Handsome Son !!!!! I Look up to you !!!! My Mentor !!!!! Your sister in Christ !!!!!! Maribel 😇
Chick Hearn was good friends with Celtics 🍀 broadcaster Johnny Most. Johnny passed away in 1992 and Chick 🐥 used to say he wouldn't be inducted into the HOF unless Johnny was inducted as well. Chick is now gone but he was inducted in the HOF but sadly Johnny still isn't 🙁
Everybody in that arena players included know damn well Wilt would bury everyone alive.
I never forget that day
Lansing Michigan Thank you Ervin Magic Johnson. God Speed Sir!
25:35 Norm taught me all my bad habits. Wow, after seeing Coop and Jerry West's reactions the mind boggles at what Magic meant by that lol
My daughter participated in charity work with the Lakers while in school. She told me that being around Magic just made you feel good.
Kareem’s speech was awesome!
@12:48 The best part. Kareem speaks, Magic cries. True mates.
Jack Nicholson omnipresent at all important events of the Lakers to this day ! Including Kobe's retirement and the sad day of Kobe
2 of the greatest players ever. Absolite enemies on the court. 1 black, 1 white. Why the hell in the 2020s ....is it still about race. The love between these two shows how much sport brings us all together.
We shoild all ne greatful for everyone whom played up till today.
Other than that. What an absolute stand out of legends in this video.
....
I mean you got a watch the Larry Bird retirement ceremony as well when Magic came up on stage Boston cheered for him to because they just made each other better they were like gentlemen and I just remember those old games in always had mad respect for Magic Johnson even though I was a Celtics fan because I always felt like he made Larry Bird better and I think Larry Bird made him better too they were both awesome and it was just great
I started watching NBA in 1987 , during the Magic and Bird era. 🏆🤩
I just keep switching from Magics retirement ceremony to Larry's one 🤣