Magic Johnson’s immediate reaction to the Commanders’ playoff win

When the current Washington Commanders The ownership group took control in July 2023, the goal was simple but extremely ambitious – to change the culture of the franchise. After Sunday clinching a 23-20 NFC Wild Card victory against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the team appears to be well on its way to effecting said change, if it hasn’t already.

The defense buried its feet in the ground at key moments in the game, the rookie quarterback Jaiden Daniels and the offense was an example of remarkable balance and Zane Gonzalez made a 37-yard field goal to win the first Washington NFL playoffs win in 20 years. Achieving the milestone on the road is a testament to the strong foundation that the front office and head coach Dan Quinn quickly laid.

NBA icon Magic Johnsonone of the team’s minority owners, embraced Josh Harris’ vision. now, he sees it beginning to come true.

“I’m happy for all the Commanders fans around the world,” the all-time great point guard said, via Greg Aumann of Fox Sports, after experiencing the big V live at Raymond James Stadium. “The ownership group, we wanted to turn things around, led by Josh Harris, and we’re so proud of these young men for the season and for winning this playoff game.” It’s all about the players. Don’t make this about me… It’s about that team inside.”

The Commanders didn’t lose their cool against the Bucs

The men on the field really fought bravely, once again showing great composure in the fourth quarter. Yes, the Buccaneers suffered some self-inflicted wounds, thanks fumble by Baker Mayfield and an early snap from rookie center Graham Barton, but the Commanders still came through in the clutch. They got multiple fourth downs, including one that led to a Terry McLaurin touchdown, and outlasted one of the roughest teams in the league.

Jaden Daniels, who threw for 268 yards and two touchdowns in his postseason debut, sealed Washington’s landmark victory with a defiant run in the game’s final minute. He is the fearless and talented leader the team spends offseason after offseason searching for. Before Daniels’ arrival, fans were desperate for a sign of hope. The wait is over.

Relevance has returned to this long-standing institution. Only sustained success and competence can measure true revitalization, but the entire organization has redefined the way Commander Football is viewed. Considering what the fanbase has endured for so many years, that’s a monumental feat.

While Magic Johnson should be uninterested in winning the playoffs at this point in his life, even he probably didn’t expect such a quick resurgence. He and the rest of the Commanders will be excited to watch as the team prepares for the NFC division battle with the Detroit Lions.