Despite not playing a single game for the Lakers, the fans still voted Magic Johnson into the 1992 NBA All-Star Game, longing for one more game from one of the most beloved figures in league history. The NBA allowed this to happen but not everyone was thrilled with the idea of playing alongside someone with HIV. The most notable player to speak out against Johnson suiting up was his Western Conference teammate, Utah Jazz star forward Karl Malone.
But people wanted this to happen and Magic’s longtime friend, Isiah Thomas, made sure that it did. Thomas held a meeting with the players and the result was that Magic Johnson would indeed be on the floor in Orlando. In a wonderful gesture, Tim Hardaway gave up his starting spot on the West squad so that Johnson could be on the floor for the opening tip-off.
The story that unfolded at the 1992 NBA All-Star Game was like a fairytale. During pregame introductions, the crowd gave Magic a standing ovation that just seemed to go on and on and on. But the other players still didn’t quite know how to react. Again, Isiah Thomas stepped in and eased the tension, running over and embracing his friend. And then, forgive the pun that’s coming, the real magic began.