http://awfulannouncing.blogspot.com/2008/10/breaking-news-abc-adding-
magic-johnson.html

Monday, October 13, 2008

Magic Johnson has been a TV free agent for quite awhile now. He had
been showing up on TNT from time to time, but the ex-NBAer never
really had an official deal. Until now. ESPN/ABC announced during a
conference call this morning that Magic Johnson will be the newest
member of their studio team. Via ESPN....

Earvin "Magic" Johnson has joined ESPN as an NBA studio analyst and
will mainly work with Stuart Scott, Mike Wilbon and Jon Barry on
ABC's GMC NBA Countdown. He will provide analysis on Christmas Day –
when ABC and ESPN combine to showcase an NBA tripleheader (beginning
at 12 p.m. ET on ESPN) – and contribute to the networks' post-season
studio coverage. The announcement was made by Norby Williamson,
executive vice president, production.

"Magic has always been one of the most accomplished people in every
field he has endeavored. He was an incomparable player and has become
one of the best NBA analysts in the business. His unique insights,
perspective and personality will be the perfect complement to Stuart
(Scott), Mike (Wilbon) and Jon (Barry)," said Williamson.

"I am thrilled to be a part of the ESPN family. I look forward to
working with a great team and covering all the big NBA events," said
Johnson. "Christmas Day can't come soon enough for me."
I don't really know how many people out there are a fan of Magic's
studio work, and the hiring comes at a really weird time, but he
might actually work with ABC's studio team. NBA Countdown is the only
show where I can stand Stuart Scott and Wilbon and Barry can only
help the guy improve.

The network also extended the contract of Jeff Van Gundy today in
conjunction with the Magic announcement.