Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson was among the many NBA faces present for the funeral of former commissioner David Stern.
Johnson, who retired in 1991 after being diagnosed with the HIV virus, was allowed to compete in the 1992 All-Star Game after being voted in as a starter by the fans. His former teammates A.C. Green and Byron Scott argued Johnson shouldn't play, but Stern gave him the green light to play, even if he wasn't on an NBA team's active roster.
That was the first of many moments that tied the late Stern and Johnson together, creating a bond like no other between a player and the commissioner of the NBA.
During Stern's funeral on Tuesday, Johnson had a lot to say about his longtime friend David Stern.
“At the toughest time in my life, my commissioner became my angel,” said Johnson, according to Vincent Goodwill of Yahoo Sports.
Johnson soon acknowledged that participating in the 1992 All-Star Game was life-changing: “That game saved my life.”
“You know a true friend when something bad happens in your life,” added Johnson. “The man was great because he understood what every individual needed. And he stood next to you because of what you needed.”
Stern left many memories during his 30 years as commissioner of the league and was a trailblazer for the sport with the many changes he enacted during his tenure. But most importantly, he connected with many players during his time as commissioner and supported them, just like he did for Johnson upon his retirement.
Playing in the All-Star Game in 1992 opened the door for Johnson participating in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics with Team USA — a team that would soon make history as the most dominant ever in the sport. None of that would be possible without Stern's compassion and keen eye for the moment.
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