There’s something magical about the NBA draft, especially when it involves one of the greatest players to ever grace the hardwood. Magic Johnson’s draft class isn’t just a group of players; it’s a slice of basketball history that shaped the league as we know it today. This wasn’t just any draft—it was the 1979 NBA Draft, a year that changed the game forever. So, buckle up, because we’re diving deep into this legendary draft class and exploring why it still resonates with fans worldwide.
Think about it: the NBA draft is like a treasure hunt, where teams hope to find the next superstar. In 1979, the Los Angeles Lakers hit the jackpot by selecting Earvin “Magic” Johnson with the first overall pick. This wasn’t just a player—they got a leader, a showman, and a Hall of Famer who redefined the point guard position. But hey, Magic wasn’t the only gem in that class. Stick around, and you’ll see how this draft left an indelible mark on the NBA.
Now, let’s get real. The 1979 NBA Draft wasn’t just about Magic Johnson. Sure, he’s the crown jewel, but there were other players who made significant contributions to the league. Some became All-Stars, some faded into obscurity, but all of them played a part in creating a draft class that’s still talked about today. So, whether you’re a die-hard basketball fan or just curious about the history of the game, this article’s got you covered.
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Who Was Magic Johnson Before the Draft?
Before we dive into the draft class, let’s take a moment to understand who Magic Johnson was before he became an NBA legend. Born on August 14, 1959, in Lansing, Michigan, Earvin Johnson Jr. grew up in a basketball-loving family. His nickname “Magic” was given to him by a local sportswriter during his high school days, thanks to his incredible court vision and playmaking abilities.
At Michigan State University, Magic led the Spartans to the NCAA championship in 1979, defeating Larry Bird’s Indiana State squad in what’s considered one of the greatest college basketball games ever. This matchup set the stage for their legendary rivalry in the NBA, but more on that later.
Key Achievements Before the Draft
- 1977–1979: Two-time All-American at Michigan State.
- 1979 NCAA Championship MVP.
- Averaged 17 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game in college.
These numbers don’t lie. Magic wasn’t just a star; he was a phenomenon. His ability to make his teammates better and his knack for finding the open man set him apart from other players. When the Lakers selected him first overall, they knew they were getting more than just a player—they were getting a franchise cornerstone.
The 1979 NBA Draft Class: A Breakdown
So, let’s talk about the class itself. The 1979 NBA Draft wasn’t just about Magic Johnson. There were 224 players selected that year, but only a handful made a significant impact. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the notable players from that draft:
Top Picks of the 1979 NBA Draft
- 1st Pick: Earvin "Magic" Johnson – Los Angeles Lakers
- 2nd Pick: Larry Bird – Boston Celtics
- 3rd Pick: Mark Aguirre – Dallas Mavericks
- 7th Pick: Mychal Thompson – Portland Trail Blazers
Notice something interesting? The top two picks in this draft went on to become two of the biggest names in NBA history. Magic and Bird not only dominated the league during their playing days but also helped elevate the popularity of the NBA globally.
Impact on the NBA: How Magic Changed the Game
Magic Johnson’s impact on the NBA can’t be overstated. As a 6’9” point guard, he revolutionized the position. Traditionally, point guards were small, quick players whose primary job was to distribute the ball. Magic turned that notion on its head by bringing size, strength, and athleticism to the position. His ability to see the floor and make plays from anywhere on the court set a new standard for point guards.
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During his 13-year career with the Lakers, Magic won five NBA championships and was named Finals MVP three times. He was a 12-time All-Star and a nine-time All-NBA First Team selection. His rivalry with Larry Bird fueled the Celtics-Lakers rivalry, which became one of the most iconic in sports history.
Magic’s Legacy Beyond the Court
But Magic’s influence extended beyond the hardwood. After retiring in 1991 due to HIV diagnosis, he became a prominent advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness. He also ventured into business, becoming one of the most successful African American entrepreneurs in the world. Magic’s journey from the courts to the boardroom is a testament to his resilience and determination.
Other Notable Players in the 1979 Draft Class
While Magic Johnson and Larry Bird get most of the attention, there were other players in the 1979 draft class who made their mark on the league. Let’s take a closer look at some of them:
Mark Aguirre: The Scoring Machine
Mark Aguirre was selected third overall by the Detroit Pistons but was quickly traded to the Dallas Mavericks. Standing at 6’7”, Aguirre was a versatile forward who could score from anywhere on the court. Over his 14-year career, he averaged 20.8 points per game and was a six-time All-Star.
Known for his aggressive driving style and ability to finish at the rim, Aguirre was one of the most exciting players to watch during the 1980s. He even led the league in scoring in 1984–85 with 29.5 points per game.
Mychal Thompson: The Trailblazer
Selected seventh overall by the Portland Trail Blazers, Mychal Thompson became the first African American player to be selected number one overall in the NBA Draft when he was picked by the Blazers in 1978. Despite being overshadowed by the likes of Magic and Bird, Thompson had a solid career, averaging 14.3 points per game over 12 seasons.
Interestingly, Mychal Thompson is also the father of Golden State Warriors sharpshooter Klay Thompson. Talk about keeping it in the family!
How the 1979 Draft Shaped the NBA
The 1979 NBA Draft wasn’t just a collection of talented players; it was a turning point for the league. At the time, the NBA was struggling to gain mainstream popularity. The arrival of Magic Johnson and Larry Bird changed all that. Their rivalry became the centerpiece of the league, drawing fans from all over the world.
Moreover, the draft showcased the importance of college basketball in developing NBA talent. Both Magic and Bird came from small college programs, proving that talent could be found anywhere. This realization led to increased scouting efforts and a greater emphasis on college basketball as a feeder system for the NBA.
Statistical Impact of the Draft Class
Here are some statistics that highlight the impact of the 1979 draft class:
- Five players from the draft class were inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
- Eight players were named All-Stars during their careers.
- The combined total of NBA championships won by players from this draft class is 14.
These numbers speak volumes about the quality of players in this draft class. It’s no wonder that the 1979 NBA Draft is often regarded as one of the best in league history.
Lessons from the 1979 Draft Class
So, what can we learn from the 1979 NBA Draft? First and foremost, it shows the importance of identifying talent early. The Lakers and Celtics were smart enough to recognize the potential of Magic and Bird, respectively. Secondly, it highlights the value of college basketball in developing NBA-ready players.
But perhaps the most important lesson is the power of rivalry. Magic and Bird’s competition elevated the NBA to new heights, proving that great players don’t just win games—they build legacies. Their rivalry inspired a generation of players and fans, setting the stage for the modern NBA we know today.
Modern-Day Implications
Fast forward to today, and you can see the influence of the 1979 draft class in the current NBA landscape. Players like LeBron James and Stephen Curry have followed in the footsteps of Magic and Bird, using their talents to not only win championships but also grow the game. The emphasis on player development, scouting, and building rivalries continues to shape the league.
Where Are They Now?
As we look back on the 1979 draft class, it’s fascinating to see where these players are now. Magic Johnson is a successful businessman and a prominent figure in the NBA community. Larry Bird retired from coaching and now serves as the President of Basketball Operations for the Indiana Pacers. Mark Aguirre went on to have a successful coaching career, while Mychal Thompson enjoys a quiet life away from the spotlight.
But the legacy of this draft class lives on through the players who continue to draw inspiration from their achievements. Whether it’s the next generation of point guards or the young fans who dream of playing in the NBA, the 1979 draft class remains a source of inspiration and admiration.
Final Thoughts: Why This Draft Class Matters
In conclusion, the 1979 NBA Draft wasn’t just a collection of talented players; it was a pivotal moment in basketball history. Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and their fellow draftees set the stage for the modern NBA, proving that great players can change the game. Their contributions on and off the court have left an indelible mark on the sport, and their legacy continues to inspire players and fans alike.
So, the next time you watch an NBA game, remember the 1979 draft class and the impact they had on the league. Whether you’re a fan of the Lakers, Celtics, or any other team, this draft class is a testament to the power of talent, hard work, and determination.
And hey, if you enjoyed this article, why not leave a comment or share it with your friends? After all, spreading the love for basketball is what it’s all about. Until next time, keep hoopin’!
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