Lansing YMCA Is Getting a New Name Honoring Magic Johnson

One of Lansing's most famous names is getting a permanent place in one of the city's longtime community spaces.

The YMCA of Metropolitan Lansing has announced new details for its Westside Branch, which is being renamed the Earvin "Magic" Johnson YMCA in honor of the Lansing native, Michigan State legend and NBA Hall of Famer.

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Johnson grew up in Lansing and has talked about the role the YMCA played in his life, especially when it came to having a safe place to play basketball as a kid.

The renaming was announced during the YMCA's Legacy of Magic Gala, which celebrated Johnson, his family and their impact on the Lansing community.

The name change is only part of what is planned for the facility.

What’s Coming to the Magic Johnson YMCA

The YMCA says a two-acre expansion will add two more sports courts, two new turf fields and an acre of green space that can be used for expanded youth programs. Plans also include a new pavilion.

Visitors will eventually see another tribute to the Johnson family before they even walk inside.

A New Mural Will Honor the Johnson Family

Local artist Dustin Hunt is expected to create a mural on the outside of the building honoring Magic Johnson and his family.

The project will also include a sustaining legacy fund in the Johnson family's name. The fund is expected to help provide scholarship opportunities for young people in Lansing for years to come.

Work at the newly renamed Earvin "Magic" Johnson YMCA is expected to get underway this fall.

The mural honoring Johnson and his family is currently expected to be finished by June 2027.