NBA legend Magic Johnson joins Spirit ownership group

Field Level Media|published: Thu 5th September, 10:42 2024

USA defeated Croatia 117-85 in the gold medal game of the Barcelona Summer Olympics August 8, 1992. This was the original Dream Team, and was the first American Olympic team to feature active professional players from the NBA. The starting five consisted of Patrick Ewing, Larry Bird, Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson and Scottie Pippen. The team has been described as one of the greatest sports team ever assembled.

Hall of Famer Earvin "Magic" has joined the Washington Spirit's investor group, the NWSL team announced Thursday.

Johnson is no stranger to investing in professional sports teams.

The five-time NBA champion is a part owner of the NFL's Washington Commanders, WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks, MLS' Los Angeles Football Club and the esports franchise Team Liquid. He also is a member of Guggenheim Baseball Management, the managing entity of Major League Baseball's Los Angeles Dodgers.

"It is a great honor to welcome Earvin to the Washington Spirit today. From the basketball court to the boardroom, Earvin knows how to win, and we are delighted to count on his expertise as part of our fantastic investor group," Spirit owner Michele Kang said.

"His commitment not only reflects the strength of our club, players, fans and brand, but also sends a powerful message about the growth and impact of women's sports globally. Together, we look forward to taking the Washington Spirit to new heights and inspiring the next generation of young women and girls worldwide."

Johnson, 65, shared his feelings about his initial meeting with Kang on "CBS Mornings" on Thursday.

"Michele and I met in Los Angeles and we clicked," Johnson said. "We took off. It was a great conversation. When you think about what happened with the Olympics and (how) the women's soccer team dominated on the field ... the popularity of the game is exploding here in America."

--Field Level Media

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