Earvin Johnson showed fans at Breslin Center that even at 43, he still has some “Magic” left.
Johnson netted his second triple-double against MSU in as many years while leading the Magic Johnson All-Stars to a 104-85 victory over the Spartans Friday.
MSU was largely outplayed in its first exhibition game, leaving head coach Tom Izzo disheartened with the cagers’ lackluster performance.
“We had some guys that just did not play anything like Michigan State basketball and that will change,” Izzo said. “I have to be accountable, they have to be accountable and right now this team needs to get back and learn how to play better, play harder.”
From the get-go Johnson made it clear it was his night, scoring 12 and pulling down 10 boards, while dishing out 10 assists.
The NBA Hall-of-Famer and former Spartan let his off-court personality shine as well.
Coming back to the court after a time out, Johnson gazed to the banner bearing his name. Slowly bobbing his head in time with the Spartan Marching Band, he began mouthing the fight song, flashing his million-dollar smile to the delight of the crowd.
“I had fun tonight, that’s what makes college basketball so exciting,” Johnson said. “I know I can’t do it too much longer, but I’m going to enjoy it until I can’t do it any more.”
Freshman center Paul Davis provided one of the few bright spots on the MSU’s squad. Davis poured in a team-high 16 points and collected nine rebounds in just 18 minutes of play, garnering praise from a basketball great.
“Paul is unbelievable as a freshman,” Johnson said. “I love him, he can step out and shoot. He’s gonna be a good one.”
Two former Spartans - Mike Chappell and David Thomas - made their homecoming memorable by netting 27 and 18 points respectively for the All-Stars.
After the break the Spartans went on a 7-0 run thanks to a Davis put-back and five free throws. MSU pulled within 12 before letting the game slip away with costly defensive errors and missed opportunities.
Johnson, who met with the Spartans after the game, remained positive about the team’s season outlook.
“They’re gonna be better, they have all the tools, I think we just caught them off guard. This game means nothing other than to gauge where they are as a team. And right now, they know need some work.”
Sophomore guard Kelvin Torbert underwent surgery to remove a bone chip in his left ankle Friday. The injury has nagged Torbert since high school. Torbert will be sidelined for two to three weeks and is expected to make a full recovery.
