For years, Earvin "Magic" Johnson was the face of the Los Angeles Lakers—and easily one of the most popular public figures in the city. Now, it appears that (for better or for worse) Johnson will return to the team, this time as its president of basketball operations. In honor of the big news, we’re updating our map of some of the LA locations that have shaped his legacy over the years.
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The Magic Johnson map guide to Los Angeles
All the places where the Lakers legend left his mark
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Laker Dorms
Magic spent his first four years in LA in an apartment somewhere on Green Valley Circle. Longtime team owner Dr. Jerry Buss owned the building and put a number of Lakers up for discounted rates.
For years, Earvin “Magic” Johnson was the face of the Los Angeles Lakers—and easily one of the most popular public figures in the city. Now, it appears that (for better or for worse) Johnson will return to the team, this time as its President of Basketball Operations. In honor of the big news, we’re updating our map of some of the LA locations that have shaped his legacy over the years.
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The Forum
Where all the on-court magic happened.
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The Forum Club
Where all the off-court magic happened.
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Pickfair
Buss bought and renovated Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks's storied estate in Beverly Hills, and it served as site of the wildest parties of the Showtime era.
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STAPLES Center
A statue of Magic stands outside Staples Center. Also, you know, the Lakers play there.
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Magic Johnson TGI Friday's
Magic has invested in number of companies since retiring, including TGI Friday's. This one proudly bears his name, and holds a solid two-star rating on Yelp.
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Equinox
Magic shoots around—where else?—at the West LA Equinox.
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Via Alloro
Magic's favorite Italian restaurant. Apparently he's a sucker for sea bass.
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Van Nuys Airport (VNY)
Magic keeps his private plane in Van Nuys.
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Home
Magic and his wife Connie live in tony, gated Beverly Park, hence his son Earvin III's appearance on E's Rich Kids of Beverly Hills. Sample quote: "Yachting is my favorite pastime."
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Dodger Stadium
Magic’s impact on LA sports isn’t limited to basketball. In 2012, he and a group of investors purchased the Dodgers for $2.15 billion from not-so-popular owner Frank McCourt.
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Banc Of California Stadium
Johnson is also part-owner of new Major League Soccer team the Los Angeles Football Club. The team will play in a stadium being constructed in Exposition Park at the site of the old Los Angeles Sports Arena.
Earvin Magic Johnson Park
Magic retired from basketball in 1991 (though he later returned for one more season) after testing positive for HIV. Shortly after that, the LA County Board of Supervisors renamed the Willowbrook Recreation Area in his honor. The 104-acre park is now due for a major 18-year makeover.
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Toyota Sports Center
The Lakers team offices are located in this complex in El Segundo.
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