Magic Johnson, a luminary in the annals of basketball history, recently ignited a fiery debate by omitting modern titans LeBron James and Stephen Curry from his exclusive list of all-time NBA superstars, sparking widespread disbelief and discussion among fans and analysts alike.
As the architect of the illustrious “Showtime” Los Angeles Lakers, Johnson’s insights into the sport typically command universal respect, given his five championships in nine years and his pivotal role in revitalizing the NBA in the 1980s. However, his recent pronouncements on ESPN’s “First Take” challenged this reverence.
Johnson’s definition of a superstar hinges on a player’s ability to single-handedly sell out an opponent’s arena, irrespective of circumstances. While seemingly a plausible criterion, its application led to the surprising exclusion of James and Curry, who are arguably the most commercially magnetic figures in the sport today.
The omission of these two global icons, particularly given their undeniable draw in terms of ticket sales and television ratings, raised eyebrows. It suggests a potential bias towards players from or immediately following Johnson’s own era, an assertion that becomes more evident when examining his chosen few.
Topping Johnson’s list, fittingly, is his legendary rival, Larry Bird. Bird’s inclusion is irrefutable, as he and Johnson collaboratively rescued the NBA from a period of decline in the 1980s, creating an unparalleled rivalry that captivated audiences and fundamentally reshaped the league’s narrative.
Bird’s superstar appeal, as articulated by Johnson, transcended mere statistics, rooted in his intangible brilliance—his innovative passing, deadly accurate shooting, and famously relentless trash talk. These qualities cultivated a unique moxie that endeared him to fans and set him apart.
Following Bird, Johnson named Shaquille O’Neal, a dominant force whose ability to command attention and pack arenas is unquestionable. O’Neal’s four championships and three Finals MVPs solidify his status as an all-time great and a quintessential draw for any NBA fan.
Kobe Bryant, another Lakers icon, also made Johnson’s esteemed list. Bryant’s capacity to fill arenas remained undiminished throughout his career, even in his later years. His enduring popularity and global recognition firmly establish him as one of the NBA’s most celebrated and recognizable superstars.
The debate ignited by Johnson’s selections underscores the subjective nature of “superstar” status, prompting a broader conversation about legacy, impact, and the evolving criteria for greatness in the dynamic landscape of professional basketball.
