NBA legend Magic Johnson was in attendance at the game between the Michigan State Spartans and Colorado Buffaloes on Monday. Johnson formerly attended Michigan State and played for the Spartans for a couple of seasons before getting drafted by the LA Lakers in 1979.
Johnson watched his former college team easily beat the Buffaloes 72-56. It was a special win for Michigan State as they pulled off the victory in front of a basketball legend.
It appears Magic Johnson still actively supports his alma mater's sports divisions. Earlier this year, Johnson went on social media to congratulate Michigan State's football division after they beat the Maryland Terrapins.
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"Spartan Nation, what a nice win over Maryland today," Johnson tweeted. "I really love how our quarterback Aidan Chiles charged us down the field to put us in position to kick the winning field goal!"
Looking back at Magic Johnson's time at Michigan State
In 1977, NBA legend Magic Johnson enrolled at Michigan State University and played a couple of seasons for the men's basketball team. At the age of 18, Johnson already proved why he was worthy of the moniker that was given to him later in his career.
During his freshman year, Magic averaged 17.0 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 7.4 assists. His impressive numbers resulted in him being named to the First Team All-Big Ten, Mideast Regional Team and Second Team All-American.
Given the accolades, Magic Johnson could've entered the NBA if he wanted to. But he decided to play another year for the Spartans and brought glory to his college team.
Come Johnson's sophomore year, he averaged almost the same numbers with 17.1 ppg, 8.4 apg and 7.3 rpg. The only major difference was that he notched more accolades in his final year with the Spartans.
Magic became part of the First Team All-Big Ten, Mideast Regional Team, All-Tournament Team. He was also named the Michigan State Team MVP, Final Four Most Outstanding Player, Consensus All-American, and Wooden Award winner.
Johnson brought home the 1979 NCAA Championship as they defeated Indiana State. It was a fitting ending to a legendary college career.