Magic Johnson responded to L.A. Clippers owner Donald Sterling’s scathing comments during an interview with CNN’s Anderson Cooper, airing Tuesday.
During the far-ranging discussion, Johnson addressed Sterling’s controversial remarks about his HIV status and statements inferring that Magic hasn’t done enough to support the Black community or Los Angeles’ inner-city kids.
Also read: Donald Sterling Slams Magic Johnson: ‘What Has He Done? He’s Got AIDS… I Think He Should be Ashamed’
“And again, I’m going to pray for the man because even if I see him today, I’m going to say hello to Donald and his wife as well,” Johnson said. “I’m not a guy who holds grudges and all that. Yes, am I upset? Of course! But at the same time, I’m a God fearing man and I’m going to pray for him and hope things work out for him.”
Johnson also praised NBA Commissioner Adam Silver‘s decision to ban Sterling for life and called on the NBA Board of Governors to proceed with Donald Sterling’s removal from the NBA.
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“My whole life is devoted to urban America,” Johnson said. “So, you know I just wish he knew the facts when he’s talking. But he’s a man who’s upset and he’s reaching. He’s reaching. He’s trying to find something that he can grab on to help him save his team. And it’s not going to happen. It’s not going to happen.”
The interview airs Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET on “AC360” CNN.