Would You Play on the Court with "Magic" Johnson? (Opinionated Informative Essay)

Earvin “Magic” Johnson gave the announcement in 1991 that he had attained the HIV disease. In the months to follow, he was constantly being judged. People didn’t want to be near him, thinking they would catch the disease by merely a hand shake. During an exhibition game in 1992, which was the L.A. Lakers vs. The Cleveland Cavaliers, Magic got a small cut which spiked controversy from many. If I were a basketball player given the option to play with Magic on the court for a game or opt out, I would play. The only way HIV/AIDS can be transmitted is through sexual intercourse or contact with blood (Ex. If you had an open wound and some of the infected person’s blood got into the wound or you digested some of the blood from the contaminated subject). Thus being highly unlikely for a person to be contaminated if only playing a game of basketball. I would still play at Magic's exhibition game in which he got a small cut in, even if I knew he was going to get the cut. I would take some precautions though. If I myself had a cut or open wound, I would cover that up thoroughly so in case some of Magic's blood got in contact with my skin, it would not go into the cut. I would be careful not to touch my face or mouth, in case some of the contaminated blood got on my hands and I ingested it. Also, if I were a person of authority at the game, I would have Magic clean the cut with soap and water and cover it up with a bandage. There are ways to solve problems besides going to the easy option which is panicking and reacting. In conclusion, I would still play on the court even if I knew Magic was going to get a cut. I believe that everybody deserves a chance to be who they want to be and reach their potential. If this statement includes risk like being in a thoughtful situation with a person diagnosed with a disease, then so be it. Magic said to a L.A. Newspaper that he retired because the controversy surrounding the game sucked the life out of