Magic Johnson Leads 137th Rose Parade as Grand Marshal
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Pasadena, Calif. — Los Angeles Lakers icon Earvin “Magic” Johnson served as Grand Marshal of the 137th Tournament of Roses Parade on Jan. 1, 2026, presiding over the New Year’s Day tradition despite unseasonably wet Southern California weather.
Johnson began the morning riding at the head of the Rose Parade under this year’s theme, “The Magic of Teamwork.” The event also highlighted continuing recovery efforts following recent Southern California wildfires.
After the parade, the Hall of Famer traveled to nearby Rose Bowl Stadium, where he handed the commemorative coin to officials before the College Football Playoff quarterfinal between top-seeded Indiana and perennial contender Alabama. Indiana remained unbeaten with a 38-3 victory behind three touchdown passes from Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza.
Johnson, who would have preferred to see his alma mater Michigan State in the playoff, joins a list of former athletes who have filled the Grand Marshal role, including Billie Jean King, Hank Aaron, Pelé and Carl Lewis.
Now decades removed from his playing career, the five-time NBA champion maintains a prominent presence in Los Angeles through ownership stakes in the Dodgers, Sparks and LAFC, and through community initiatives led by the Magic Johnson Foundation.
Source: Lakers Nation
