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A Touch Of Magic

It was the first sellout crowd of the season. Lakers fans came 17,505 strong, bearing signs, banners and eager smiles. Two minutes and 21 seconds into the game, they rose to their feet and roared for joy: Magic was back on court.

Earvin ("Magic") Johnson had not played for the Lakers since November 7, 1991. That was the day he announced he would retire from basketball for medical reasons. Up until then, his career had been simply amazing. He won three Most Valuable Player awards and was named to the All-N.B.A. team nine years in a row.

Now Magic is 36. He has a daughter and son who weren't even born when he last played. He weighs 27 pounds more. His new position is power forward, not guard.

Although Magic is infected with the virus that causes AIDS, he has not developed the deadly disease. He feels fit enough to play the sport he loves.

"It was so much fun, man," said Johnson after the game. But not for the Golden State Warriors, who lost 128 to 118. Magic scored 19 points and came through with 10 assists. But not even he could stop the mighty Chicago Bulls on Friday.

"I love his style. He can really move the basketball around," said Lakers fan Aren Manoukian, 12, who caught Tuesday's game. "I saw him play here in '91, and I've been hoping to see him play again ever since."

Magic's teammates felt the same way. Said forward Cedric Ceballos: "When Magic is out there, there is sunshine and happiness."

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