Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Larry Bird, Essay Example

Introduction

The society and American system is defined and recognized through the contribution of celebrities who succeed in their trade. From the movie industry to the sport world, many have proved that their will to succeed depends on the support and recognition of their country. Many athletes and sportsmen have been promoted through the famous American system that influences success among the talented individuals. Magic Johnson and Larry Bird are some of the most American celebrities. Thanks to their star that shone in the basketball court in the top American league of NBA. They both have had interesting careers winning championships for their teams respectively. Johnson joined the major league after winning the high school championship. Larry joined Boston and has played about thirty seasons for the team winning several championships. It is important to recognize the athletes who have performed exceptionally in their careers and made Americans proud. Both these individuals achieved their fame in the American society through their contribution in the athletic industry.

Comparison

Magic Johnson was born Ervin Johnson in 1959. He joined the Los Angeles after winning a high school championship in the 1979 draft selection. He won a Most Valuable Player title after winning a championship in his early season. He star shone more as he won four other championships with his team in Nineteen Eighties. Later on in 1991, Johnson announced that he had contracted HIV then retired immediately. He returned to play in the All Star game where he won the Most Valuable Player award. His fellow players protested his return that made him retire for four years. He came back in 1996 and played 32 games for his team then finally retired. He had achieved a lot during his time at the Lakers. He won three National Basketball Association MVP Awards, and made nine appearances for the NBA finals.

Born in 1956, Bird has served in different capacities in the basketball court. He has been a player a coach and a team president. The Boston Celtics drafted Bird in 1978 ranking him sixth overall. He played in the forward position for thirteen seasons at the Boston Celtics. He was awarded the NBA all-star award for 12 times. He was a three-time Most Valuable Player winner at the Celtics. He stayed at Boston for his entire career winning the three championships for the Celtics. He retired in 1992 after suffer suffering chronic back problems. He won the gold medal as a member of the dream team in the summer Olympics of 1992. He got many awards in his career including the All Time Team in the 50^th anniversary team. He his only player to be named the Most Valuable Coach. He was also named the Best Team Manager of the year. Johnson and Birds careers are similar in that they have served their teams for many seasons without changing teams. They were valuable to their team members as they contributed much in the basketball court.

Contrast

Johnson is seen to have had an extravagant life in his career off the basketball court. He contracted HIV, which prompted him to resign after pressure from his team mates. He played a major role in the victories of his team though, it did not replicate in his private life.  Bird, on the other hand, succeeded after his career to become a revered promoter of the talent as a couch. This just shows their willingness to extend the talent beyond their ability.