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Magic Johnson Quits ESPN, Focuses on Owning Dodgers
Earvin 'Magic' Johnson, rapper LL Cool J and Kobe Bryant of the Los Angeles Lakers attend a game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Yankees on July 31, 2013 at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, Caifornia. (Photo by Jill Weisledero/Los Angeles Dodgers via Getty Images)
Magic Johnson announced his resignation from ESPN and the NBA Countdown studio show today.
"Unfortunately, due to the nature of my schedule and other commitments, I don’t feel confident that I can continue to devote the time needed to thrive in my role," Johnson said in a statement released by ESPN.
Johnson became the studio analyst for ESPN's pregame and halftime show for NBA games in 2008. He continued his role on the show last season despite buying a share of the Dodgers in March 2012.
"We appreciate Magic’s contributions and wish him well in his future endeavors," ESPN executive vice president of production John Wildhack said in a statement.
Johnson will undoubtedly have his hands full with the Dodgers. They will open the National League Championship Series tomorrow in St. Louis against the Cardinals with first pitch at 5:37 p.m. PT. The Dodgers will host Games 3, 4 and 5 (if necessary) on Monday (5:07 p.m. PT), Tuesday (5:07 p.m. PT) and Wednesday (1:07 p.m. PT if necessary). All NLCS games can be seen on TBS.