Image Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Magic Johnson: “I Might Have to Get Back Into the NBA” – Legend Eyes Ownership Move, Hints at Knicks Bid After Lakers

Magic Johnson hints at potential ownership of NBA teams, as Stephen A. Smith joins the pitch

Image Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Magic Johnson has been one of the best point guards in the history of the game. He dominated the 80s era with the Los Angeles Lakers. However, beyond the court, the 65-year-old has also managed to maintain his reputation.

Johnson ranks among the richest players in basketball history, and that wealth extends far beyond his Lakers days. The NBA Hall of Famer has grown his fortune through stakes in major sports franchises and strategic business deals. He has minority stakes in many sports teams.

Magic Johnson defines a superstar – "A person who can go on the road and sell the building out." pic.twitter.com/KeXDsIsQby
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) June 12, 2025

His portfolio includes teams like the Dodgers, Commanders (NFL), Sparks (WNBA), LAFC (MLS), and the NWSL’s Los Angeles Spirit. Johnson now wants a direct seat at the NBA ownership table. In a recent ESPN appearance, Johnson openly expressed interest in buying an NBA franchise.

He said, “I might have to get back into the NBA. I’m interested in the Lakers, but you know what? I may be interested in somebody else, too. Depending on who the owner is.” The former Lakers President is mainly eyeing a return by purchasing the 17-time NBA champions.

Franchise Hunt Begins For Magic Johnson

Stephen A. Smith, who is a lifelong New York Knicks fan, asked Magic Johnson to consider buying the team. Smith recently expressed his frustration with the Knicks ownership especially after how they fired their head coach Tom Thibodeau.

He said, “Can you get a group together and steal them from the Knicks? Could you do that? I mean, I would really appreciate it.” Johnson replied, “If (James) Dolan ever puts the Knicks up for sale, I’ll be first in line.”

On the show, Johnson shared that multiple NBA franchises had previously approached him with ownership offers. One of the sides he claimed was the Golden State Warriors. However, due to the loyalty he has had with the Lakers, Johnson eventually declined the offer. However, he is now back in the market to do some ownership deals.