Magic Johnson praised former Los Angeles Lakers coach Pat Riley on June 23, 2026, after the Miami Heat landed Giannis Antetokounmpo in a blockbuster trade.
What happened?
The Milwaukee Bucks traded Antetokounmpo to the Miami Heat, with several teams vying for the 10-time NBA All-Star.
Why it matters for Magic Johnson
Magic Johnson and Pat Riley have a long history, dating back to Johnson's rookie season in 1979 when Riley was an assistant coach for the Lakers.
Riley took over as head coach in 1981, and together they led the Lakers to four NBA championships in the 1980s.
What comes next?
Magic Johnson praised Riley's success as an NBA executive, citing big trades and free agent signings like LeBron James, Shaquille O'Neal, and Jimmy Butler.
Magic Johnson wrote on X: “Look how many big trades and free agent signings my former Lakers coach and one of my best friend’s, Pat Riley has pulled off – LeBron James, Shaq, Jimmy Butler, Alonzo Mourning, Ray Allen, and now Giannis Antetokounmpo.
And of course he drafted the legendary Dwyane Wade! It’s not even a question, he’s one of the best executives in NBA history!”
The trade was announced on June 23, 2026, just one day before the 2026 NBA Draft.
Pat Riley is known for his ability to make blockbuster moves, having helped the Lakers acquire franchise icons like LeBron James and Shaquille O’Neal.
Magic Johnson and Pat Riley have maintained a close bond throughout the years, with Johnson often praising Riley's success as an NBA executive.
The Miami Heat's acquisition of Giannis Antetokounmpo is a significant move, with the team looking to make a deep playoff run in the upcoming season.
Magic Johnson's praise for Pat Riley is a testament to their long-standing relationship and Riley's reputation as one of the best executives in the NBA.
But Magic Johnson's statement on X highlights Riley's impressive track record.
The Lakers' iconic “Showtime Era” was marked by four NBA championships, with Magic Johnson and Pat Riley at the helm.
Magic Johnson's rookie season in 1979 was the start of a successful partnership with Pat Riley, who was an assistant coach at the time.
The pair's success on the court has been well-documented, with Magic Johnson often citing Pat Riley as a key factor in their championship wins.
Pat Riley's ability to make big trades and free agent signings has been crucial to his success as an NBA executive.
However, it is his track record that speaks for itself, with a long list of successful moves that have shaped the NBA landscape.
On June 23, 2026, Magic Johnson took to X to praise Pat Riley's latest move, citing his impressive history of success.
The trade has sent shockwaves through the NBA, with many teams looking to make similar moves in the upcoming season.
Magic Johnson's praise for Pat Riley is a clear indication of the respect he has for his former coach and friend.
The NBA landscape is constantly changing, but one thing remains constant - Pat Riley's ability to make big moves and shape the league.
Magic Johnson and Pat Riley's relationship is one of the most enduring in the NBA, with a history that spans decades.
Their partnership on the court was marked by success, and their friendship off the court has only grown stronger over the years.
The 2026 NBA Draft is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting season, with Magic Johnson and Pat Riley sure to be watching with interest.