The "Showtime" Lakers, one of the greatest sports teams of all-time, including Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, James Worthy, Byron Scott, Michael Cooper, A.C. Green, Kurt Rambis, Jamaal Wilkes, Norm Nixon will reunite to honor Johnson.

The event will also bring together the greatest assemblage of NBA legends to honor an NBA player by paying tribute to the on and off-court accomplishments of Johnson. NBA legends scheduled to participate include Bill Russell, Julius "Dr. J" Erving, Isiah Thomas, Charles Barkley, Earl Monroe, George Gervin, and Walt Frazier along with NBA Commissioner David Stern.

The program, directed by David Foster, a 14-time Grammy-award winning producer, will also feature musical performances from Big Boi of OutKast, Jessica Simpson and Earth, Wind & Fire. Presenters including Wayne Brady, Andy Garcia and TNT’s Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith and Ernie Johnson are only some of the names making up this all-star evening celebrating.

The evening will provide a journey through the decades of Mr. Johnson’s career and accomplishments, with guest appearances to highlight the different eras in the three-time NBA MVP’s life, from his tenure at Michigan State and with the Los Angeles Lakers, to his current role as a successful businessman and philanthropist.

Tickets are available exclusively to American Express Cardmembers for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com or 213-480-3232 — with net proceeds from ticket sales going to the Magic Johnson Foundation. Tickets are available for $50, $75 and $125. TNT will televise the tribute on Saturday, February 14 from 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. EST, as part of their All-Star 2004 programming.

"Magic is one of those truly unique talents who has helped make life rewarding through his work in the community and professionally on and off the court," said John Hayes, chief marketing officer for American Express. "We’re bringing the fans this exciting addition to NBA All-Star to honor Magic, extend our partnership with the NBA, and, to create another truly unique and memorable experience for our cardmembers."

"Magic Johnson is a true pioneer both on and off-the-court, and we are proud that American Express will be honoring one of the NBA's all-time greats," said Adam Silver, President, NBA Entertainment. "This tribute is a perfect example of American Express's ability to deliver exclusive opportunities for their cardmembers and we are pleased to be able to provide the assist."

About the Magic Johnson Foundation
The Magic Johnson Foundation was established in 1991 as a single-disease organization that worked to raise funds for community-based organizations dealing with HIV/AIDS education and prevention programs. The Foundation has since responded to the growing need to address the major health issues affecting people of color including prostate cancer, hypertension, youth obesity and diabetes.

In addition to health programs, MJF also provides programs to meet the educational needs of urban residents. The programs include scholarships and technology grants to individuals and community-based organizations that have demonstrated a commitment to the communities which they serve.

The Magic Johnson Foundation is committed to improving the quality of life for people residing in urban communities. MJF feels strongly that all individuals can succeed given access to the appropriate resources. We are committed to providing education and testing in the areas of health, information pertaining to scholarships, finance, entrepreneurship and technology access to bridge the digital divide. We will serve as the conduit to deliver the much needed partnerships, programs and resources that others cannot or will not deliver to these communities. It is our hope that our efforts will serve as a call to action to encourage other Foundations, Corporations, Civic organizations and individuals to join us in this most worthy cause to empower families.

About American Express
American Express Company is a diversified worldwide travel, financial and network services company founded in 1850. It is a leader in charge and credit cards, Travelers Cheques, travel, financial planning, investment products, insurance and international banking.