This week I had the opportunity to attend the premiere of Magic/Bird on Broadway. Eric Simonson’s play examines Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Larry Bird’s rise to NBA superstardom, their longstanding rivalry and enduring friendship. The show brought back a lot of great memories from when I coached against the Lakers and Celtics, and later when I broadcast many of their games including the Dream Team’s quest for Olympic gold in 1992.

A number of NBA dignitaries, former players and entertainers were in attendance, including Magic Johnson and Larry Bird. As a special bonus Johnson and Bird took the stage after the curtain call to greet the audience and acknowledge the actors.

All of the actors delivered impressive performances. The leads Kevin Daniels and Tug Coker did a wonderful job portraying the two very distinct basketball personalities, which must have been especially difficult knowing that their legendary subjects were in the audience.

I wish the producers Fran Kirmser and Tony Ponturo the same success that they had with Lombardi. 

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