Magic Johnson He talked about how he won five NBA championships as a player, another five as an owner and an Olympic gold medal with the “Dream Team.” He talked about what it takes to win in sports and in business.
As he spoke, players and coaches leaned in to hear every word.
It was the Basketball Hall of Famer-turned-businessman’s first visit to the Washington Commanders since becoming part owner of the NFL franchise, a surprise appearance that briefly overshadowed football on Wednesday in hopes of making a lasting impact inside and outside. field.
“It was really cool because when he came in, It’s like you’re seeing a star“said sophomore catcher Jahan Dotson. “Basically, he was just giving us words of encouragement, making sure we stayed focused, disciplined and stuff like that.”
Only coaches Washington and a handful of players are old enough to have seen Johnson play for the Los Angeles Lakers. But many have seen his highlights and heard stories about his three seasons and three NBA Finals MVPs and how he transcended sports by announcing to the world that he was HIV positive and then returning to the court more than four years later to finish his career as a player. career.
More than anything, they know that Johnson is a winner, so the players asked him about the differences between the champion teams and those that fell short.
“He’s been through so many different teams and not only as a player but as an owner and won so many championships on both sides.so you definitely know what it takes“said starting quarterback Sam Howell. “It just talked about (how the players) believed in each other and just stuck together as a team, looked out for each other and always held each other accountable.”
That lesson about responsibility is what resonated most for coach Ron Rivera, who was on the edge of his seat as much as his players to absorb Johnson’s wisdom. Rivera He saw Johnson at his best, but in this appearance he cared more about what players learned about Magic as a person.
“You could tell they really accepted it.“Rivera said. “It’s funny. It’s like being a father. “You can tell your son all you want, but until someone like Magic says it, then it means something.”
Magic Johnson has a special position
Johnson He talked a lot, extending the talk into pre-practice meetings and going over schedule. That’s usually something you can’t do in the NFL when teams have regimented schedules, but this was a special exception with Johnson and new controlling owner Josh Harris there to practice.
“Coach Rivera “He asked some of the leaders how they felt about it and, of course, we appreciated the opportunity to talk to him, but also to hear his story,” said catcher and team captain Terry McLaurin. “Magic comes with a lot of energy . “It’s great to meet such a successful man, a man of God who loves to win.”
Harris, speaking with co-owner Mitch Rales at an Economic Club of Washington, D.C., event Wednesday night said Johnson He plays a unique role in the group, based on what he has accomplished, which allows him to convey a message to the players. .
“There are not many people who have won, as an athlete, five NBA championships and, as owner, five other world championships,” Harris said. “And so, his ability to speak uniquely about what creates a winning franchise for people who spend their entire lives training and preparing for Sunday, had a unique perspective that was greatly appreciated in the room.”
Johnson is expected to be at the sold-out season opener on Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals.
2023-09-07 04:56:00
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