Magic Johnson Has Won 15 Championship Rings As Player And Owner

- 1 Ring (1978-79)

Magic Johnson’s journey to greatness truly began at Michigan State, where he led the Spartans to their first NCAA championship in the 1978-79 season. Johnson was a sophomore and already recognized as a standout player, averaging 17.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.4 assists per game. His dynamic play and leadership on the court helped the Spartans power through the season with a 25-6 record, positioning them as one of the top teams in the country. Johnson’s impact was unmatched, and he became the driving force behind Michigan State’s run to the national championship.

In the NCAA tournament, Johnson elevated his game to new heights. He recorded a memorable triple-double in the national semifinal against Penn, posting 29 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists to lead Michigan State to a 101-67 victory. That dominant performance set the stage for the national championship game, one of the most anticipated matchups in college basketball history. Facing off against Larry Bird and Indiana State, Johnson led the Spartans to a 75-64 victory, clinching his first championship ring. The game was watched by an estimated 40 million viewers and marked the beginning of a storied rivalry between Magic and Bird.

In that final game, Johnson showcased his signature style with 24 points, controlling the flow and setting up his teammates while locking down on defense. His performance earned him the Most Outstanding Player award for the tournament, a fitting capstone to his college career. This title with Michigan State was the first in Magic Johnson’s legendary collection of championships, symbolizing the start of an extraordinary path that would soon bring him to the NBA and beyond.

Los Angeles Lakers - 10 Rings

- 5 Rings as a player (1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988)
- 5 Rings as owner/executive (2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, 2020)

Magic Johnson’s bond with the Lakers isn’t just iconic—it’s practically in the team’s DNA. As a player, Magic brought home five NBA championships, kicking off with his unforgettable rookie season in 1980. Back then, he wasn’t just a rising star; he was already rewriting the playbook. The Finals that year? Pure legend. With Kareem Abdul-Jabbar sidelined, rookie Magic slid into the center position for Game 6 and dominated, dropping 42 points, snagging 15 rebounds, and dishing out 7 assists. It was a Finals performance for the ages, and it set the tone for the “Showtime” Lakers that would own the NBA throughout the ‘80s.

Magic continued to rack up championships with the Lakers, taking home rings in 1982, 1985, 1987, and 1988. These weren’t just wins—they were showstoppers. The team’s fast-paced, high-energy style was something the NBA had never quite seen, and fans couldn’t get enough. With Magic orchestrating the offense, the Lakers became a dynasty that didn’t just win; they made basketball fun. It was alley-oops, no-look passes, and a whole lot of swagger. Magic, Kareem, and the rest of the Showtime crew kept the Forum buzzing, and those five rings are a testament to just how dominant the Lakers were during his playing years.

But Magic’s influence on the Lakers didn’t stop when he hung up his jersey. He shifted to the executive suite, becoming a part-owner and helping guide the team through yet another championship run. During his ownership, the Lakers secured five more titles in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, and 2020. The early 2000s were all about Shaq and Kobe, a new powerhouse duo that Magic helped steer from behind the scenes. Those years brought a different kind of dominance, with the Lakers locking down three titles in a row from 2000 to 2002. The 2020 championship, the fifth of Magic’s ownership era, was special in a new way—it came during the “bubble” season, under difficult circumstances, and honored Kobe Bryant’s legacy.

Altogether, Magic’s ten rings with the Lakers show how much he’s meant to this team, from the Showtime days on the court to the behind-the-scenes work in ownership. His connection to the franchise isn’t just about being a legend in the spotlight; it’s about building a legacy that’s lasted decades, showing up to make the Lakers a championship team time and time again.

Los Angeles Sparks - 1 Ring

- 1 Ring as owner (2016)

Magic Johnson’s winning touch isn’t limited to the NBA. As part-owner of the Los Angeles Sparks, he helped lead the team to a WNBA championship in 2016. That year, the Sparks were a powerhouse, boasting one of the league’s best records and a roster loaded with talent. With stars like Candace Parker and Nneka Ogwumike leading the way, the Sparks dominated the season and made a strong playoff run, finally landing in the Finals against the Minnesota Lynx, who had become their biggest rival.

The 2016 Finals were nothing short of epic. The series went all the way to a decisive Game 5, which came down to the wire. Nneka Ogwumike nailed the game-winning shot with just a few seconds left, securing the Sparks’ first title since 2002. Candace Parker, who had one of the best seasons of her career, was named Finals MVP, pouring her heart into the game. The championship was huge for the Sparks, but it also held special meaning for Magic, when the Lakers had become a rebuilding team in the NBA with little immediate title hopes.

With that 2016 ring, Magic added another championship to his ever-growing collection, further solidifying his legacy in LA sports. From the Lakers to the Sparks, he’s shown that his influence goes beyond one league or team—when Magic’s involved, championships just seem to follow.

Los Angeles Dodgers - 2 Rings

- 2 Rings as owner (2020, 2024)

Magic Johnson’s winning streak continued with the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he’s now helped bring home two World Series titles as part-owner. The first came in 2020, a year unlike any other, with a shortened season and strict health protocols. That year, the Dodgers faced off against the Tampa Bay Rays and won the series in six games, securing their first championship in over three decades. Magic, who joined the Dodgers’ ownership group back in 2012, celebrated the win as a huge victory for both the franchise and the city.

Just recently, Magic and the Dodgers added another ring to the collection with a 2024 World Series victory over the New York Yankees. In what was billed as a blockbuster matchup between two historic franchises, the Dodgers took control early, winning three straight games before the Yankees managed a win in Game 4. But the Dodgers sealed the series in Game 5 with a tight 7-6 victory at Yankee Stadium, clinching the title and showing off the depth and resilience of their roster.

With two World Series titles under Magic’s ownership, the Dodgers have re-established themselves as one of baseball’s top franchises. Magic’s influence has been crucial, bringing stability, big-name signings, and a championship culture to the team. Now with two rings from his time with the Dodgers, Magic Johnson’s legacy in LA sports just keeps growing—whether it’s on the court, on the diamond, or in the front office, Magic knows how to bring home titles.

Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) - 1 Ring

- 1 Ring as owner (2022)

Magic Johnson’s championship magic hit the soccer field in 2022 when LAFC took home their first-ever MLS Cup. As a part-owner, Magic joined LAFC with big dreams for the young club, and it didn’t take long to turn those dreams into reality. In just a few years, LAFC became a top contender, and in 2022, they capped off an incredible season with a wild, heart-stopping win over the Philadelphia Union in the MLS Cup Final. The game was an absolute thriller, packed with late goals, extra time, and an insane penalty shootout.

That season, LAFC had some serious star power with Carlos Vela and Gareth Bale leading the charge. Bale’s last-minute equalizer in extra time was legendary, tying the game and giving LAFC the momentum they needed heading into the shootout. It was the perfect Hollywood ending for a team built to win, and they didn’t disappoint.

For Magic, this MLS title was just another ring in his collection, but it was a big moment for LA sports. LAFC went from newcomers to champs in record time, and Magic’s winning energy was all over it. From hoops to soccer, if Magic’s involved, you can bet there’s going to be a trophy in the mix.

Magic Johnson’s Next Ring?

Magic Johnson might be on his way to his first NFL ring, thanks to the Washington Commanders’ surprising run this season. Sitting at 7-2, they’re leading the NFC East and are right behind the 49ers in the conference standings. It’s safe to say things are clicking in D.C., and Magic’s winning energy seems to be rubbing off on the team.

The Commanders’ new rookie quarterback, Jayden Daniels, is putting on a show. This kid came out of LSU with big expectations, and he’s living up to every bit of the hype, making big plays when it counts. With Terry McLaurin hauling in passes and Brian Robinson Jr. keeping defenses honest with his tough running, the Commanders’ offense looks the best it has in years.

But it’s not just the offense. The defense is bringing the heat too. They’re keeping the Commanders in every game, letting the offense take care of the rest. If they keep this up, a deep playoff run isn’t just a dream—it’s a real possibility. Magic could be celebrating another championship sooner than later, and this time, he’d be bringing a Super Bowl ring to his collection.