Magic Johnson is heartbroken over the death of fellow Lakers legend Jerry West.
The NBA legend, who played 14 seasons in the league, died on Wednesday at 86, and Johnson took to X to remember West in a lengthy post detailing what the basketball icon meant for his life and career.
“Cookie and I are just devastated and continue to lift up his beautiful wife Karen; sons David, Mark, Michael, Ryan and Jonnie, extended family, and loved ones in prayer,” Johnson said in his social media post.
But that was not the only thing Johnson mentioned.
Through the good days, the bad days and really bad days, West was there for Johnson.
He highlighted how much of a true friend West was in his X post.
“He was there in my highest moments, winning 5 NBA Championships, and in my lowest moment when I announced my HIV diagnosis and we cried together for hours in his office,” Johnson wrote.
West even went the extra mile with Johnson, ensuring that they were always up to date with each other’s lives, especially as Johnson was reaching the pinnacle of his career.
“Every time I achieved a goal or crossed a milestone, one of the first calls I received was from Jerry West. When I started my business, was inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame, was named Lakers President of Basketball Operations — he would always pick up the phone and give me a personalized call to congratulate me,” Johnson wrote.
The two clicked from the moment they met back in 1979 when West immediately took Johnson under his wing as the Michigan State phenom joined a star-filled Los Angeles team.
“My father, agent and I negotiated over lunch then Jerry took me to the locker room to show me my Lakers jersey. I started to cry and Jerry explained to me the expectation of wearing the purple and gold, how he saw my role, and how he envisioned me fitting into the organization. I’ll never forget that moment,” Johnson wrote.
Johnson categorized the friendship as “great” off the hardwood.
Johnson also credited West — who won one title as a player and eight as an executive — for much of the Lakers’ success.
“Laker Nation, the only reason we have 17 NBA championships is because of Jerry West and his expertise drafting players, trading for players, and hiring the right coaches,” Johnson wrote.
The death of “Mr. Clutch” rippled through the league, as others also came forth to mourn the legend.
Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Johnson’s Lakers teammate, also penned a heartfelt note on X.
“Today, a part of the continent has broken off and we are all left a little smaller,” he wrote. “I know I am. I especially want to send my deepest condolences to Karen and the entire West family.
LeBron James, Michael Jordan, Chris Paul and Bill Russell’s widow were among the many others also expressed sadness following the news.
West was named an All-Star each year of his 14-season career, all with the Lakers.
His career and achievements were many, both on and off the court.
“Today is a sad day for basketball fans and sports fans across the globe,” Johnson wrote.
