Magic Johnson, born August 14, 1959, is an American retired professional basketball player and former president of basketball operations for the Los Angeles Lakers of the NBA. Renowned for his exceptional passing and playmaking skills, Johnson led the Lakers to five NBA championships during the 1980s, earning three NBA MVP Awards and appearing in 12 All-Star games. His rivalry with Larry Bird is legendary, significantly contributing to the popularization of the NBA. Following his HIV diagnosis in 1991, Johnson became an advocate for HIV/AIDS prevention and safe sex.