Monday, November 7, 2011

20 Years Ago: Magic's HIV Announcement

It was 20 years ago today when Magic Johnson stunned the sports world by announcing that he had the virus that causes AIDS.

At the time of Johnson's Nov. 7, 1991 announcement, his long-term prognosis was uncertain. It was thought the vibrant, energetic and ever-smiling basketball star's health would decline, possibly resulting in the death of one of the NBA's most beloved stars.

Johnson wasted no time at the news conference. After greeting reporters packed in the room at the Great Western Forum, he said the words that took some time to process.

"Because of the HIV virus that I have attained, I will have to retire from the Lakers today," Johnson said as he stood behind a podium microphone.

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