From his entry into the NBA in 1979, Earvin “Magic” Johnson began the era of “Showtime” in Los Angeles. The uniquely-sized 6’9” point guard from Michigan State immediately paid dividends for the Lakers as he helped lead Los Angeles to the 1980 NBA title. Following the 1980 title, Magic and the Lakers would make four NBA Finals appearances in five seasons, winning it all in 1982 and 1985 and capturing his second Finals MVP in 1982.

Magic Johnson game used jerseys from his early days are hard to find, especially the home yellow jerseys. To date, only a handful of home Magic Lakers jerseys have ever hit the market and have been graded as high as the jersey being offered here. This yellow mesh Los Angeles Lakers home jersey was worn by Magic during the period of 1980-1985. This jersey has “LAKERS” sewn on the upper chest in purple and white tackle twill with Magic’s number “32” sewn on below in purple and white shadow tackle twill. The neck and sleeve openings have white/purple/white band. The back of the jersey has “JOHNSON” sewn on in purple and white tackle twill with his number “32” sewn on in the same color pattern.

The jersey was manufactured by Tiernan of Glendale, California. Tiernan was the official jersey supplier for the Lakers from 1975-1985 and from 1980-85, the purple numbering with white borders were used during this time frame. Tiernan used two styles of tagging according to the game used experts at MEARS. The printed version is seen from 1975 to 1985 and during the approximate years of 1982-85, the Lakers also used an embroidered tag, which is on the center tail of this jersey. Both style tags were used through 1985. This jersey displays moderate to heavy game use and comes with a LOA from MEARS (314590), who have graded this jersey a perfect A10. Also accompanying this jersey is an additional letter from MEARS dated April 6, 2016 stating that “MEARS #314590 is the highest rated and only home shirt at that grade from the era.”

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