Earvin "Magic" Johnson is synonymous with NBA greatness, his dazzling no-look passes and infectious smile defining an era of "Showtime" basketball. While his talent was undeniable, the number etched on his jersey became equally iconic: #32. But what's the fascinating tale behind Magic's choice of this legendary number?
The Genesis of #32
The story begins not in the glitz of Los Angeles, but in the humble high school gyms of Lansing, Michigan. As a budding star at Everett High, young Earvin idolized NBA legend Earl "The Pearl" Monroe, who famously sported jersey number 10. Naturally, Magic wanted to wear #10 himself. However, fate had other plans – a senior player had already claimed it. Faced with this minor setback, Magic had to pick an alternative. With his characteristic flair, he settled on #32, reportedly because it "sounded a lot like 10." A simple, almost whimsical reason that, unbeknownst to him, would forge one of the most recognizable numbers in sports history.
From his high school dominance to leading Michigan State to an NCAA Championship, and then for the vast majority of his illustrious tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers, #32 remained Magic's constant companion. It was the number he wore as he revolutionized the point guard position, won five NBA championships, and collected three MVP awards, etching his name into basketball immortality. Such was its significance that the Lakers officially retired his #32 jersey in 1992 after his initial, unexpected retirement.
When Magic made his courageous comeback to the NBA in 1996, the iconic #32 was already hanging proudly in the rafters of the Great Western Forum. Unable to reclaim his legendary number, he chose #33 for his brief, final stint on the court. While #33 represented a new chapter and was arguably a respectful nod to fellow Laker great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's own iconic number, it is undeniably #32 that truly tells the definitive story of Earvin "Magic" Johnson's unparalleled legacy and remains the number most associated with his greatness.