Wednesday, October 8, 2025

It’s Magical! Magic Johnson Named 2026 Rose Parade Grand Marshal

Basketball icon and civic leader Earvin “Magic” Johnson was named Grand Marshal of the 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade, Tournament of Roses President Mark Leavens announced Wednesday morning during a ceremony on the front steps of Tournament House.

Johnson will lead the 137th Rose Parade presented by Honda and participate in the pre-game celebration for the 112th Rose Bowl Game presented by Prudential, both scheduled for Jan. 1, 2026. This year’s parade theme, “The Magic in Teamwork,” echoes Johnson’s legacy on and off the court.

“Who would ever think I would be the Grand Marshal of the Rose Parade?” Johnson said. “As a kid growing up in Lansing, Michigan, this was a thrill of a lifetime just to wake up and watch the parade. I never thought in my wildest dreams I’d be the one waving from that car.”

Leavens praised Johnson’s decades of philanthropic and entrepreneurial leadership, citing his foundation’s support for more than 375 college-bound students and his $100 million commitment to minority and women-owned businesses during the pandemic. Johnson also helped launch LA Rises, a recovery initiative following the Eaton Fire that impacted Altadena, Pasadena and Sierra Madre.

“Earlier this year, he spent time at the Boys and Girls Club of Pasadena to support families directly affected by the fire,” Leavens said. “He’s a man who steps forward when his community needs him.”

Johnson, who received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in January, is also part of ownership groups for several professional sports teams, including the Los Angeles Dodgers. Leavens highlighted Johnson’s storied basketball career, which includes five NBA championships, three league MVPs, and a gold medal with the 1992 Olympic Dream Team.

“He’s one of only two players in NBA history to record over 10,000 assists,” Leavens said. “And I don’t think we’ve ever had a Grand Marshal whose nickname is literally in our parade theme.”

Johnson expressed gratitude to the Tournament of Roses committee and reflected on the personal significance of the honor.

“My kids and grandkids didn’t see me play basketball, but they’ll see me in that car,” he said. “Everything I do is for my family and to represent this city. I just hope we have a great day, no rain, and that we continue to support each other.”

The announcement took place at 11:20 a.m. on the front lawn of Tournament House, 391 S. Orange Grove Blvd., under overcast skies. Johnson closed his remarks with a nod to his Dodgers, hoping for a win later that evening to cap off what he called “the most awesome day I could ever think of.”