Magic Johnson’s appearance at midfield before the Rose Bowl quickly became a talking point across social media Thursday.
The NBA legend handled the ceremonial coin toss before the matchup between the Indiana Hoosiers and Alabama Crimson Tide, an honor that surprised some viewers and sparked a wave of comments online. Some on social media questioned why Johnson was there, while others joked about how he might offer his trademark, plainly worded commentary on the moment.
Johnson, 66, has become a familiar online presence for his straightforward observations on major sporting events, a style that routinely draws playful reactions. Similar jokes resurfaced during the Los Angeles Dodgers’ 2025 World Series run, when Johnson’s celebratory posts again went viral.
Need Magic Johnson to explain this coin toss to me pic.twitter.com/FgYXDM9Uon
— Liam Blutman (@Blutman27) January 1, 2026
However, there was a clear reason for his presence. Johnson was named Grand Marshal of this year’s Rose Parade by the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association. The parade’s theme, “The Magic in Teamwork,” centered on Johnson, the Lakers legend and billionaire businessman who is also a Dodgers co-owner.
The festivities unfolded under rare conditions and rain in Pasadena. It marked only the 11th rain-soaked Rose Parade since the event began in 1890, with more than an inch of rain falling in parts of Southern California Thursday morning.
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