Magic Johnson Remembers Kobe Bryant With Personal Message on Saturday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Sullivan | Last updated Aug 23, 2025 1:36 PM ET

When anyone discusses who the greatest Los Angeles Laker of all time is, the debate almost always comes down to two names: Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant.

While the two never shared the court together, their friendship and bond were extremely close throughout Bryant's legendary career, with Johnson always remaining connected to the organization.

Johnson spoke at Bryant's jersey retirement ceremony and also met him at center court during his final NBA game, where Bryant erupted for 60 points in one of the most iconic performances in Lakers history.

Tragically, Bryant passed away on Jan. 26, 2020, in a helicopter crash on the way to an AAU basketball tournament with his daughter Gianna and seven others.

Now, more than five years later, Bryant would have turned 47 years old on Saturday, and Johnson made sure to share a personal message on social media wishing Bryant a happy birthday.

"Remembering husband, girl dad, entrepreneur, friend, five-time champion, and one of the greatest to ever lace them up, Kobe Bryant on his birthday," Johnson posted.

Remembering husband, girl dad, entrepreneur, friend, five-time champion, and one of the greatest to ever lace them up, Kobe Bryant on his birthday pic.twitter.com/oTUfmMionU
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) August 23, 2025

Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson both spent their entire playing careers with the Lakers, each helping bring five NBA championships to the franchise.

Johnson has made it clear in the past that, in his eyes, Bryant is the greatest Laker to ever wear the Purple and Gold.

“He is not only an incredible sports icon, but also the greatest to wear the purple and gold,” Johnson said.

Kobe Bryant ranks fourth all-time on the NBA scoring list, made 18 All-Star appearances, was named the 2008 MVP, and remains one of the most clutch players in basketball history.

Over 1,346 career games across 20 seasons, Bryant averaged 25.0 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game, shooting 44.7% from the field and 32.9% from three-point range.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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