LANSING, Mich. (News 10) - The YMCA of Metropolitan Lansing is releasing new details about renaming and expanding its Westside Branch as the Earvin “Magic” Johnson YMCA in honor of the NBA and Michigan State University icon born and raised in Lansing.
Johnson said the recognition is an incredible honor and reflected on the YMCA’s role in his childhood.
“I hold the YMCA in high regard because growing up as a little boy, it was a safe space for me to pursue my love for basketball,” Johnson said. “This honor is not mine alone — it reflects the support, guidance and collaboration of this community and everyone who helped shape my work along the way.”
The YMCA said the renaming is a first-of-its-kind recognition in Lansing. It was unveiled during the Legacy of Magic Gala, hosted by the YMCA to celebrate Johnson and the Johnson family’s impact on Lansing and the organization.
Lansing YMCA renamed in honor of Magic Johnson
Lansing YMCA renamed in honor of Magic Johnson
Plans for the newly named Earvin “Magic” Johnson YMCA include a 2-acre expansion featuring two additional sports courts, two new turf fields, an acre of green space for expanded youth programming and a new pavilion.
The exterior of the facility also will feature a mural honoring Johnson and his family by local artist Dustin Hunt.
A sustaining legacy fund also is being established in the Johnson family’s name to provide Lansing youth with scholarship opportunities for generations to come.
Site work at the Earvin “Magic” Johnson YMCA is expected to begin this fall, with the Johnson family mural expected to be completed in June 2027.
More information about the project and ways to support the Earvin “Magic” Johnson YMCA is available on the YMCA’s website.
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