Magic Johnson, an NBA star, attended Monday’s game between the Colorado Buffaloes and Michigan State Spartans. Prior to being selected by the LA Lakers in the 1979 NBA Draft, Johnson played for the Spartans for a few seasons while attending Michigan State.

Johnson saw his old college team defeat the Buffaloes 72-56 with ease. Michigan State’s victory was particularly noteworthy because it was achieved in front of a basketball icon.

Magic Johnson seems to still be involved with his alma mater’s athletic departments. Johnson congratulated Michigan State’s football team on social media earlier this year after they defeated the Maryland Terrapins.”Spartan Nation, what a nice win over Maryland today,” Johnson wrote on Twitter. “I really love how our quarterback Aidan Chiles charged us down the field to put us in position to kick the winning field goal!”

Reflecting on Magic Johnson’s Michigan State daysNBA great Magic Johnson joined Michigan State University’s men’s basketball team in 1977 and played for them for a few seasons. Johnson demonstrated why he was deserving of the nickname later in his career at the age of 18.

Magic averaged 17.0 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 7.4 assists in his first campaign. Due to his outstanding performance, he was selected to the Mideast Regional Team, First Team All-Big Ten, and Second Team All-American.

Magic Johnson could have joined the NBA if he had wanted to, considering the honors. However, he made the decision to play for the Spartans one more season and helped his collegiate team win.

Johnson had nearly identical stats in his sophomore year, averaging 17.1 points per game, 8.4 apg, and 7.3 rpg. The sole significant distinction was that he received more honors during his last season with the Spartans.

Magic joined the Mideast Regional Team, All-Tournament Team, and First Team All-Big Ten. In addition, he received the Wooden Award, Consensus All-American, Final Four Most Outstanding Player, and Michigan State Team MVP honors.

When they defeated Indiana State, Johnson won the 1979 NCAA Championship. It was a great way to round off an incredible time in college.