Laura Rutledge Teamed Up With NBA Legend Magic Johnson

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Jun 24, 2026 11:33 AM ET

NFL reporter Laura Rutledge had the pleasure of linking up with Hall of Famer Magic Johnson outside of sports.

The pair connected at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. The prestigious event is the premier annual gathering of marketing, advertising and creative minds held each June in Cannes, France.

Their paths crossed through Publicis Connected Media. The company announced a formal partnership with Magic Johnson Enterprises in February, with Johnson serving as an advisor and providing direct access to his culturally relevant platforms.

Johnson took to Instagram to share photos from the event. Judging by the caption, the five-time NBA champion was thoroughly impressed by his time with Rutledge.

"I had some great meetings today in Cannes with some impressive brands thanks to my partners at Publicis!" he wrote. "I was joined by ESPN reporter Laura Rutledge and 3Arts Sports Co-Founder and CEO Aaron Eanes this afternoon and we really enjoyed our time and conversations. Thank you to Publicis Sports CEO Suzy Deering for an awesome day and Publicis Groupe CEO Arthur Sadoun!"

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Johnson has built one of the most diverse business empires in sports history since retiring from the hardwood. The Lakers legend holds ownership stakes in the Los Angeles Dodgers, LAFC, Washington Commanders, Los Angeles Sparks and Washington Spirit. He even ventured into esports through Team Liquid.

Meanwhile, Rutledge is expanding her own footprint beyond the sideline. Rutledge stepped away from SEC Nation in May 2026 after a decade as host. She remains at ESPN as a Monday Night Football sideline reporter and "NFL Live" host.

Rutledge is also set to make history as part of ESPN's first-ever Super Bowl broadcast team for Super Bowl LXI in February 2027.

Two of sports' most recognizable names in very different lanes found common ground in Cannes. That meeting alone says plenty about where both are headed.

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

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