Magic Johnson Declares Himself and Kobe Bryant as the Eternal Kings of Los Angeles

The Lakers legend subtly claimed his and Kobe's status as the city's basketball royalty.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:04pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball court scene with the figures of Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant, their identities obscured into abstract shapes and planes of color, representing the lasting impact of these two Lakers icons on the city of Los Angeles.The enduring legacy of Lakers legends Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant, whose shared status as kings of Los Angeles basketball is captured in a cubist-inspired illustration.Los Angeles Today

In a backstage interview during the unveiling of Kobe Bryant's statue in Los Angeles, Magic Johnson reflected on his relationship with the late Lakers icon. At the end of the interview, Johnson playfully declared that he and Kobe will always 'run this town', subtly positioning himself and Bryant as the eternal kings of Los Angeles.

Why it matters

Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant are two of the most iconic Lakers players of all time, both leaving an indelible mark on the franchise and the city of Los Angeles. Johnson's lighthearted declaration reinforces their shared legacy as Lakers legends who transcended the sport and became beloved figures worldwide.

The details

During the interview, Johnson was serious as he discussed his relationship with Kobe. However, he then playfully stated, 'Two people will always run this town. One is Kobe and I won't tell you the other one,' before erupting in laughter. This remark positioned Johnson and Bryant as the undisputed kings of Los Angeles, with Johnson subtly declaring himself as the other person who will always 'run this town' alongside Kobe.

  • The interview took place during the unveiling of Kobe Bryant's statue in Los Angeles.

The players

Magic Johnson

A Hall of Fame point guard and Lakers legend who played for the team from 1979 to 1991 and again in 1996. He is considered one of the greatest players in NBA history and has been a prominent figure in the Lakers organization and the city of Los Angeles.

Kobe Bryant

A Lakers legend who played for the team from 1996 to 2016. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history and is beloved by Lakers fans and the city of Los Angeles for his relentless competitiveness, championship pedigree, and global impact on the sport.

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What they’re saying

“Two people will always run this town. One is Kobe and I won't tell you the other one. Hahahaha”

— Magic Johnson, Lakers Legend

The takeaway

Magic Johnson's playful declaration of himself and Kobe Bryant as the eternal kings of Los Angeles underscores the enduring legacy and impact of these two Lakers icons. Their shared status as beloved figures who transcended the sport and became synonymous with the city's basketball culture is a testament to their unparalleled contributions to the Lakers franchise and the city of Los Angeles.