NBA Hall of Former Earvin “Magic” Johnson has been selected as the Grand Marshal for the 137th Tournament of Roses Parade, set to take place on New Year’s Day 2026.
The announcement was made Wednesday morning at Tournament House in Pasadena, where Johnson accepted the honor amid applause and fanfare. The parade’s theme will be “The Magic in Teamwork,” a nod to both Johnson’s storied basketball career and his ongoing emphasis on collaboration and community.
A Fitting Choice
At 66, Johnson brings a long legacy of athletic excellence, business leadership, and civic engagement. During his 13 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, he won five NBA championships and earned three MVP awards. He also won a national championship with Michigan State in 1979 and a gold medal as part of the U.S. “Dream Team” at the 1992 Olympics.
Johnson’s post-playing career has been just as active. He is a businessman, broadcaster, motivational speaker, and investor in multiple professional sports franchises including the Los Angeles Dodgers, Washington Commanders, Los Angeles FC, Los Angeles Sparks, and Washington Spirit.
Tournament of Roses President Mark Leavens said Johnson’s selection aligns beautifully with the parade’s theme: “I don’t think we’ve ever had a Grand Marshal whose nickname is literally in our tournament theme.”
What to Expect on January 1
As Grand Marshal, Johnson will lead the 5½-mile Rose Parade route down Colorado Boulevard. He will also participate in the pregame ceremonies for the 112th Rose Bowl Game, including the traditional coin toss.
Speaking at the announcement, Johnson expressed humility and excitement. “I never thought in my wildest dreams that I would one day become the Grand Marshal,” he said. “I’m going to be waving like crazy to all the great fans.” He also reflected on his childhood in Lansing, Michigan, where watching the Rose Parade each New Year’s Day was a tradition.
Johnson added a personal note: “They didn’t watch me play basketball, but they’ll be able to see me in that car.”
Legacy of Grand Marshals
Johnson follows in the footsteps of prominent figures from sports and beyond who have served as Grand Marshal. Last year’s honor went to tennis legend Billie Jean King. Past Grand Marshals with athletic ties include Arnold Palmer, Hank Aaron, Pelé, and Greg Louganis, among others.
While the role is largely ceremonial, it holds high symbolic value — the Grand Marshal is a face of the parade and often participates in the Rose Bowl’s coin toss, linking pageantry with athletic tradition.
The 2026 Rose Parade is already shaping up to be a major moment in Pasadena’s calendar, and Magic Johnson’s selection ensures strong national interest. Over the coming months, organizers and the public alike will be watching how Johnson’s star power is woven into parade floats, performances, and community celebrations.
