Magic Johnson Congratulates Victor Wembanyama After Spurs Star Claims Western Conference Finals MVP
magic-johnson-congratulates-victor-wembanyama-after-western-conference-finals-mvp
Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson publicly applauded Victor Wembanyama after the San Antonio Spurs forward captured the Earvin “Magic” Johnson Trophy as Western Conference Finals MVP. Johnson posted his message on May 31, 2026, one day after Wembanyama hoisted the award following San Antonio’s Game 7 victory over the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center.
The seven-game series win sends the 22-year-old French star and the Spurs to the NBA Finals, where they will meet Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks in a rematch of the 1999 championship. Wembanyama’s latest honor caps a breakout third season that already includes Defensive Player of the Year, First-Team All-NBA and First-Team All-Defensive selections.
The conference finals MVP awards were introduced in 2022, with the Western honor named for Johnson and the Eastern award named for Boston Celtics great Larry Bird. Wembanyama becomes the fifth recipient of the West trophy.
DeRozan Ranks Lakers Icons
In a separate conversation, Sacramento Kings forward DeMar DeRozan took part in Richard Jefferson’s “Start, Bench, Cut” segment, focusing on Lakers legends. The Compton native chose to start Johnson, bench Kobe Bryant and cut LeBron James. DeRozan cited Johnson’s transformative impact on the franchise and the league when explaining his decision.
Source: LakersNation.com
