Magic Johnson reacts to Commanders sale approval, becoming an NFL owner

NBA legend Magic Johnson is about to become an NFL owner. With league owners unanimously approving the sale of the Washington Commanders, the former Los Angeles Lakers superstar will have a hand in running the franchise.

Johnson is part of the ownership group — headed by Josh Harris — who will acquire the team from Dan Snyder and his family for $6.05 billion. After news broke of the NFL owners’ vote, Johnson fired off a tweet.

“God is so good…I still can’t believe it! I am currently living in an answered prayer. Since beginning my journey as an athlete and now businessman and team owner, it’s all been a dream that has come full circle,” he wrote. “I grew up playing football as a kid, I’m a huge NFL fan, and I watch games every week. Now, I get to co-own a storied franchise, the Washington Commanders.  

“I’m especially thankful to Josh Harris who allowed me to be one of his partners with the Commanders. He is an amazing man, great friend, incredible businessman, proven owner and winner with the Philadelphia 76ers. Josh and his team have been first class throughout this entire process. Our ownership team is committed to the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia community and fanbase to bring a winning team and best in class organization.”

God is so good…I still can’t believe it! I am currently living in an answered prayer. Since beginning my journey as an athlete and now businessman and team owner, it's all been a dream that has come full circle. I grew up playing football as a kid, I’m a huge NFL fan, and I…

— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) July 20, 2023

Owners voted on the purchase of the Commanders on Thursday. In order for the sale to pass, at least 24 of 32 league owners needed to approve of the purchase.

As part of the closing sale, the NFL is ordering Snyder to pay $60 million.

Roger Goodell releases statement on Commanders sale

After owners unanimously approved of the sale on Thursday afternoon, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell released a statement.

“Congratulations to Josh Harris and his impressive group of partners,” Goodell said in a prepared statement. “Josh will be a great addition to the NFL. He has a remarkable record in business, sports, and in his communities. The diverse group that Josh has put together is outstanding for its business acumen and strong Washington ties and we welcome them to the NFL as well.

“I know he has a commitment to winning on the field, but also to running an organization that everyone will be proud of — and to making positive contributions in the community.”

With the sale soon becoming officially official, it will mark the end of the Snyder era in the NFL. It’s a moment many fans — and owners — have been waiting for for a very long time.