Portland was on the offensive when a Lakers player knocked the ball loose, and Magic Johnson grabbed it. Two Blazers were immediately upon him, furiously trying to knock the ball from his hands. A Portland recovery would leave a 3-second margin for victory. Even if Johnson was fouled and added two points at the foul line, Portland could still potentially tie the game with a three-pointer.
Most players would have hugged the ball and taken the foul. But, to the crowd’s shock, Johnson heaved the ball to the opposite and empty end of the court where it bounced out of bounds. An impulsive and reckless move or a daring act of genius? The answer quickly became clear as a long 94 feet now separated Portland from the rim and victory. With only one second remaining on the clock, victory was now beyond Portland’s reach.
For then Laker coach Pat Riley, that moment revealed Magic’s remarkable team-leading instincts, traits that, over the course of his career, were to mark him as one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
- A willingness to take risks,
- To think boldly
- To go beyond normal expectations, and
- To use his own impressive talents to bring out the best in his teammates.
These were the qualities Magic Johnson brought to the game.
Some players show they can hit in the clutch, go for the home run, and know how to sacrifice to help the team score. Others strike out, commit errors and suffer injuries. They crumble under the slightest weight of adversity.
Sports, like life, are essentially about teamwork. How we interact with others, and as a team, is fundamental to the relationships we build, as family members, in our work, and with our neighbors and friends.
With many challenges lying ahead, think like Magic Johnson. Build your skills. Have courage, Become a team player! Who knows, your decision could lead to a Championship Ring!
