Initially nearly every individual was devastated when Magic Johnson announced he was retiring from the NBA after finding out he was HIV positive. It was not the retirement that really hit people hard, but was the association of HIV/AIDS as a death sentence. Many talked about Magic as if he had just passed away from the disease because at the time so many individuals were succumbing to the virus. However, in addition to this immense fear for such a beloved player, many were excited and hopeful for the changes they believed Johnson would make. Specifically, I focus on the positive reactions from his wife Cookie Johnson, the NBA, AIDS activists, and the national public.