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Magic Johnson surprises students at BC Central

BATTLE CREEK (NEWSCHANNEL 3) – Newschannel 3 was the only television station there as a basketball legend makes a surprise visit to West Michigan.

Magic Johnson visited Battle Creek Central High School Wednesday.

The Michigan native rose to fame playing point guard for the LA Lakers.

Johnson retired after testing positive for HIV and is now an activist for the fight against HIV and AIDS.

“Helping young people make good decisions, that's what it's all about,” said Magic Johnson, NBA Legend.

Earvin “Magic” Johnson shared how he grew up in Lansing.

“I grew up the same way, poor and they understand that message,” said Johnson.

The five-time NBA Champ with the LA Lakers shared how his education at Michigan State is helping him as an entrepreneur today.

“Dream outside your community, dream outside your city,” Johnson told the crowd.

“I make my message serious but light at the same time,” said Johnson, “So they can grasp it and make sure it registers in their mind.”

A message the school has been working to spread, since someone fired shots near Battle Creek Central at the beginning of the school year.

“Make sure you focus in on what you want to do an what you want to become in life,” said Johnson.

Magic made no mention of his health. He did say he was in the area, because he was meeting with leaders of an area hospital about a food service business he’s part of.