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New L.A. Sparks owners Magic Johnson and Mark Walter have officially commented on their acquisition of the L.A. Sparks.

The WNBA has formally announced that an investment group headlined by L.A. Lakers legend Magic Johnson has purchased the L.A. Sparks and will keep them in Southern California.

From the WNBA release:

"This is a great day for the city of Los Angeles and the Sparks," said Johnson. "The leaders of this great city came together quickly to keep this franchise right where it belongs-in the city of Angels.  Thanks to my sister, Evelyn, playing college basketball, I have a great appreciation of the talented players that represent the WNBA.   Our group will now work together to bring our loyal fans another WNBA championship.  "

"Earvin came to me and said we need to help save the Sparks and keep them in Los Angeles," Walter said.   "The decision was quite easy for our investment group due to the passion Magic has for this city, these great athletes and our phenomenal fans.  This team and its great players should remain a part of the sports fabric of this wonderful city."

During the press conference, Johnson also dropped a few additional tidbits:

• He mentioned discussing the team with Penny Toler and leaving the team the decisions to her and Ross, who were technically laid off at the time Paula Madison's group gave up the team. That seems to suggest they're going to keep the previous staff in place.
• For those dissatisfied with the WNBA's handling of this situation, Johnson commended WNBA president Laurel Richie saying that he would not have gotten involved without her leadership.

I knew @MagicJohnson would come through with an "assist"!!!!!

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• Basketball
• Sports
• SportsPLUS
• WNBA
• Business

This post is related to the following ongoing stories:

• 2014 WNBA Season
• Magic Johnson, Dodgers Chairman Mark Walter acquire Los Angeles Sparks

View Original Post at swishappeal.com

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There is 1 comment on this post. Join the discussion!

grandmawolf says:

Nice ! Having Magic as an owner might help with selling more tickets.
A Good Day in LA !

Thursday, February 6, 2014 at 10:57am EST

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