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Basketball icon Magic Johnson has opened up about his relationship with Michael Jordan after the pair spent time together in Europe last summer.
Johnson – considered arguably the greatest point guard of all time – was one of the biggest stars in the NBA in the 1980s, winning five championships and three Most Valuable Player awards.
The 6ft 9ins pass master was also credited with revitalising the league amid crashing viewership numbers thanks to his rivalry with Larry Bird and the Boston Celtics.
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Jordan – whose first NBA title came when his Chicago Bulls side overcame Johnson and the Lakers in the Finals in 1991 – was one of the biggest sports stars of the 90s, going on to win six championships and five MVPs.
Once adversaries on the court, Johnson and Jordan are now close friends. And they are also both hugely wealthy individuals.
Jordan's net worth – accrued predominantly through a string of lucrative endorsement deals – is believed to be around $3.5 billion. Johnson, a prolific investor, reportedly has a net worth of $1.6 billion.
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Speaking during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, the former Lakers star discussed his friendship with Jordan and their financial status.
"Jimmy, it's funny – both of us never thought we would be in this position," Johnson said. "Out there with yachts, to be able to go to dinner with our wives, to be in Europe.
"It is mind-blowing to both of us and we have fun with it.
"I never thought in my wildest dreams that any of this could happen like this. Even being on your show - you think about the Jonny Carson days, watching it at home in Michigan.
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"God blessed me, I am so thankful but at the same time it takes a lot hard work. Everybody thinks they know you – a distant cousin's friend, I've got about 10 of them."
The host also asked who picks up the bill when the two NBA legends go for dinner.
"We flip a coin," Johnson remarked with a smile. "It is his, with his face on both sides."
Topics: Basketball, NBA, Michael Jordan, Chicago Bulls, LA Lakers
Ryan Baldi