Hall of Famer Magic Johnson reminisced about the memory of former NBA commissioner David Stern, who passed away on Wednesday at 77 years old after suffering a brain hemorrhage nearly three weeks ago. Johnson and Stern will be forever linked as part of history, as Stern was one of the people that welcomed Johnson and made him a part of the game, even after he announced his retirement in 1991.

“David Stern was such a history maker. When I announced in 1991 I had HIV, people thought they could get the virus from shaking my hand,” Johnson recalled in a tweet. “When David allowed me to play in the 1992 All-Star Game in Orlando and then play for the Olympic Dream Team, we were able to change the world.”

Stern was progressive and determined to make the NBA a much different league than it was. He was at the forefront of capitalizing on the charisma and talent of star players, which included Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Michael Jordan, and many others taking the stage once he became commissioner in 1984.

“I remember one of my meetings with David in his NYC office working with him to improve the overall NBA and All-Star Weekend,” Johnson tweeted. “It was very special that he asked me and we were able to collaborate and make improvements.”

Johnson ultimately offered his thoughts and prayers for the Stern family:

“Cookie and I are praying for the Stern family, his lovely wife Dianne and sons Eric and Andrew. May God comfort you during this time. Our hearts go out to you!”

LeBron James recently offered potentially naming a day or an NBA award after him. Johnson has an award named after him, recognizing the excellence on the court and cooperation and dignity with the media and the public. Former winners include Ray Allen, Brandon Roy, Stephen Curry, and Dwyane Wade.