It’s showtime in Pasadena!

NBA icon and Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson has been named the grand marshal of the 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade, the organization announced Wednesday.

The 66-year-old Hall of Famer — often hailed as the greatest point guard of all time — is a fitting choice, especially with next year’s parade theme: “The Magic in Teamwork.”

A Full-Circle Moment for Magic

Johnson, who grew up in Lansing, Michigan, said the honor feels surreal.

“I’m still in disbelief,” he told the crowd. “As a kid, I used to wake up on New Year’s Day just to see who the grand marshal was and watch the parade. I never dreamed I’d one day be that person. I’m just blessed.”

He added that the honor means even more because of his deep ties to Los Angeles.

“I love this city, and this is just another incredible thing the city has given back to me,” he said.

From “Showtime” to Showpiece

Born Earvin Johnson, the basketball legend earned the nickname “Magic” in high school before joining the Los Angeles Lakers in 1979. He went on to lead the team’s famed Showtime era, capturing five NBA championships and three Finals MVP awards, forever cementing his place in sports history.

Now, decades later, he’ll be trading in the basketball court for a parade route — and he’s ready for it.

“I’ll be waving like crazy,” Johnson joked. “My kids and grandkids didn’t see me play, but now they’ll get to see me in that car. I think I’ll finally be kind of cool in their eyes.”

Parade Details

The 137th Rose Parade will take place on New Year’s Day 2026 in Pasadena, beginning at 8 a.m. PST. Fans can watch live coverage on KTLA and KTLA.com.

Johnson joins an impressive list of past grand marshals, including Billie Jean King, Jane Goodall, Vin Scully, Gary Sinise, John Wayne, and Frank Sinatra.

With Magic leading the parade, next year’s theme — “The Magic in Teamwork” — couldn’t be more perfect.