Magic Johnson's phone call to Larry Bird and Michael Jordan formed the 'Dream Team' after HIV diagnosis

Los Angeles Lakers icon Earvin 'Magic' Johnson has always been more than just a basketball player. That was never more evident than his early retirement in 1992 after he was diagnosed with HIV. “I just said, ‘you know what? I’m just going to be Earvin Johnson’,” the American idol recalls. “And then the greatest thing happened, which was the Dream Team.”

When Magic abruptly retired from the NBA following his shocking and stunning diagnosis, it seemed as though basketball had lost its sparkle. Many wondered if Johnson would ever be seen playing competitively again.

All it took was a call from NBA commissioner David Stern, who informed a thrilled Johnson that he was chosen to represent Team USA at the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games, the first American Olympic team to feature active players from the NBA. Magic was understandably excited about taking his talents to the biggest multi-sport event in the world - but there was one problem: Boston Celtics star Larry Bird and Chicago Bulls icon Michael Jordan were both not interested in playing in Spain.

As he did when facing precarious scenarios on the court, Magic characteristically took matters into his own hands. He phoned Bird and informed the three-time MVP that this was the final chapter of their storied rivalry - their ‘last hurrah’.

Bird remained steadfast in his stance, citing nagging back injuries and his deteriorating athleticism to deny Magic, who had his heart set on finally turning out alongside his great rival. Johnson made it clear that Bird didn’t have to do anything other than what his legend was built on: shoot the basketball.

“All you have to do is go stand in the corner or stand at the top of the key, you don’t have to do nothing else - I’m going to get you