The Washington Commanders are adding some much-needed Magic to their organization.
NBA legend Magic Johnson was beyond thrilled to be a part of the Washington Commanders’ sale, in which he is taking over as a co-owner owner after Dan Snyder’s ouster.
In a statement on his Twitter, the five-time NBA champion was jubilant after the group led by Josh Harris was unanimously approved by the league on Thursday.
“God is so good…I still can’t believe it! I am currently living in an answered prayer,” Johnson wrote. “Since beginning my journey as an athlete and now businessman and team owner, it’s all been a dream that has come full circle. I grew up playing football as a kid, I’m a huge NFL fan, and I watch games every week. Now, I get to co-own a storied franchise, the Washington Commanders.”
Johnson continued to praise Harris, an owner of the NBA’s Philadelphia 76ers and the NHL’s New Jersey Devils, “an amazing man, great friend” and “first class.”
“Our ownership team is committed to the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia community and fanbase to bring a winning team and best in class organization,” Johnson added.
The Lakers great also expressed his excitement about being a continued active member of the local community.
“This is truly the biggest achievement in my business career and a historic moment for the entire Black community. Talk about God’s perfect timing,” Johnson said.
“This was the right organization for me to be a part of given it’s global appeal, history of winning, and the diverse fanbase and DMV community.”
It’s not Johnson’s first foray into team ownership: he also owns a minority stake in the Los Angeles Dodgers as a part of Guggenheim Baseball Management, which bought the team in 2012.
The 63-year-old also has stakes in the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks and Los Angeles FC of the MLS.
It’s safe to say Commanders fans are ready for a breath of fresh air following Snyder’s 24-year tenure in which the team did not make a Super Bowl or conference championship appearance and was marred by controversy surrounding the owner.
Minutes after the sale was finalized, the NFL announced it was fining Snyder $60 million after an investigation into sexual harassment claims made against the owner.
The league also fined the Commanders $10 million in 2021 for toxic workplace claims.
Snyder is also being investigated by Virginia federal investigators, involving a $55 million loan he may have taken out without his partners knowing.
The Commanders, three-time Super Bowl champions, have only made the playoffs three times in the last 10 years.
