Magic Johnson Defines NBA Superstardom Citing Bird, Shaq, Durant

Magic Johnson, a legendary NBA figure, has defined what it means to be a true NBA superstar during the 2025 playoffs. He emphasizes that a superstar is a player who can "go on the road and sell the building out," meaning they attract fans and create must-watch moments wherever they play. Johnson cited iconic players like Larry Bird, Shaquille O'Neal, Charles Barkley, Kobe Bryant, and Michael Jordan as benchmarks, highlighting their ability to draw crowds and inspire fans to watch or attend games. Beyond drawing power, Johnson stresses that superstars must lead their teams to championships and elevate their teammates, making a significant impact on and off the court. Current young stars such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Tyrese Haliburton are mentioned as players who meet these criteria, while Magic also notes the high expectations placed on Luka Doncic to win a championship with the Lakers. Johnson’s perspective underscores that superstardom combines both commercial appeal and championship leadership, distinguishing the true elite in the NBA.