Magic Johnson Names Best Athlete in America Without Hesitation

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Max Escarpio | Last updated Aug 5, 2025 12:59 PM ET

Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson recently discussed the current state of the Michigan State Spartans, his alma mater.

Johnson gave credit to Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo's roster, mentioning that the Spartans have a breakout candidate for next season.

The former Spartan believes Michigan State star Coen Carr is the best athlete in the country and could be one of the top players if he improves on the offensive end.

"I'll tell you what, Coen Carr, if he gets that 15-foot jump shot down, he could be that best player in the nation or one of the top five or six guys in the nation," Johnson said, per Ian Kress. "There's no better athlete in the country."

Carr is heading into his third season at Michigan State.

"There's no better athlete in the country."

Talked with Magic Johnson on Monday and he is very high on MSU basketball standout Coen Carr.

He loves the growth of Carr's game and shared why this upcoming season could be Carr's breakout campaign. pic.twitter.com/fDPNZeriZj
— Ian Kress (@ian_kress) August 5, 2025

Last season with the Michigan State Spartans, Coen Carr posted 8.1 points, 3.6 rebounds and 0.5 assists per game.

Carr has started in one game for Michigan State during his two-year college basketball career. He's widely considered one of the top athletes college basketball has seen over the past several seasons, known for his vertical jump and dunk package.

He committed to Michigan State out of the class of 2023. Carr was ranked as a four-star prospect, listed as the No. 7 power forward and the No. 33 overall player in the nation, per 247Sports.

Magic Johnson played for the Michigan State Spartans from 1977 to 1979 before one of the best careers in NBA history. He committed to Michigan State as one of the top prospects in the country, having been named a McDonald's All-American.

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

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