GWOP History: 20 years ago today Earvin “Magic” Johnson announces he has HIV

 

source: WXYZ

20 years ago, Earvin “Magic” Johnson shocked the world when he announced he was HIV-positive and would retire from the NBA.

At the time, little was known about the disease and it wasn’t clear how much time the basketball superstar had left.

Over the years, Johnson has become a spokesperson for HIV awareness and prevention. The Magic Johnson Foundation is launching a new initiative today called ‘Point Forward Day.” It will kick off with a special event featuring Johnson at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

A Michigan native, Johnson grew up in Lansing and played basketball at MSU. During the 1978-79 season, MSU defeated Indiana State 75-64 in the NCAA Champioship game. Johnson as voted Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four.