Lakers legend Magic Johnson is reportedly exploring a role in NBA expansion as part of an ownership group. According to reports, Johnson could join efforts to bring a new team to Las Vegas or Kansas City. His involvement would be a significant step for the Hall of Famer who has been a successful businessman following his retirement from the league. While the legendary NBA star already has his stakes in sports ventures, the new ownership of an NBA team would bring him back to the league in a new role.
Magic Johnson is expected to be involved in the NBA’s team expansion
Magic Johnson. Image via: Alex Brandon/ AP
Magic Johnson is widely regarded as one of the most successful athletes in business after his playing days. Along with his various business ventures, he has stakes in teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers, Washington Commanders, and LAFC.
However, owning an NBA team has never been on Johnson’s radar, at least not until now. Despite his love for the Lakers, Johnson previously teased that the New York Knicks would be his top choice if given the chance.
Now, that might be changing. Reports suggest Johnson could join an ownership group for an NBA expansion team in either Las Vegas or Kansas City. According to the latest report by DailyMail.Com, the 1.6 billion rich (according to Forbes’ Real Time Net Worth) NBA legend is considering joining the group of owners for the NBA’s franchise expansion.
“Several investment groups in Las Vegas are interested in partnering with him. His extensive experience in sports ownership and his business acumen positions him as a formidable candidate,” Jack Bezants of The Daily Mail reported about Johnson’s potential move.
The NBA Hall of Famer’s return to the league with the new league has sparked conversation among fans. Additionally, Lakers legend LeBron James previously shared his interest in bringing a new team to Las Vegas.
“It just makes sense. Obviously you have the Raiders here. You have the Knights here. You have the Aces here. You got F1 coming very soon. All-Star Weekend has been here a few times, you got the NBA Summer League that’s very popular,” James said (via: Spectrum SportsNet).
He went on to add, “Sports is here and I think adding an NBA franchise here would just add to the momentum that’s going on in this town. It’s an attraction. You don’t have to worry about getting fan support, nothing like that. They show every single time, every year, every summer, like you said even if its USA Basketball or the NBA coming here for Summer League whatever the case may be. I think it’s only a matter of time, and I hope I’m part of that time.”
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If the Los Vegas NBA team gets a green light, the addition of two Lakers legends would make the team’s inception year interesting. James is still active in the league with the Lakers but the 40-year-old may hang up his basketball sneakers to join the new business venture in the NBA.
