‘Magic’ comes to North Carolina

  • Published
  • By Lisa Terry McKeown
  • 43rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
FORT BRAGG, N.C. (AFPN) --  Magic filled the air and was on the basketball court here July 29 as Earvin “Magic” Johnson paid a visit to Fayetteville, N.C.

Mr. Johnson, who led the Los Angeles Lakers to five National Basketball Association championships, spent his weekend with local Airmen and Soldiers.

He also spoke with 200 children at a youth center answering their questions and talking about education.

“We spoke with them about staying in school, following their dreams and being more than just basketball players,” Mr. Johnson said.

Later that evening, Mr. Johnson and his team, the Magic32 All Stars, took on an all-star Air Force and Army team in an exhibition basketball game that had thousands of cheering fans on their feet.

“I feel great,” said Staff Sgt. Donate Addison, of the 43rd Civil Engineer Squadron, before the game. Sergeant Addison and three other Airmen from nearby Pope Air Force Base joined eight Soldiers to face Mr. Johnson’s team of former NBA professionals.

The combined Air Force and Army team practiced together for two weeks before for the game.

“Our chances are great,” said Larry Morrisey, coach for the team. “Even though they are professional players, our team has worked really hard.”

On the court, the Air Force and Army team gave the Magic32 All Stars a run for their money in the first half. Between jump shots and passes, the players from both teams laughed and joked together. Their energy spilled into the crowd who ran onto the court whenever possible trying to get a picture or an autograph from Mr. Johnson -- all of which he welcomed with a smile.

The Magic32 All Stars turned up the heat in the second half and won the game 105-88.

Before the game was over, Mr. Johnson ran around the court tossing autographed shoes, basketballs, shorts and shirts from his new clothing line to the crowd. He also took a moment to address the all military crowd.

“You protect us,” he said. “You serve your country well. We say thank you and thank you to your families.”