Markazi: 'Last Dance': Magic talks about G.O.A.T.s Jordan, Bryant

“The Last Dance” is set to return with its fifth episode on Sunday, featuring a dedication in loving memory of Kobe Bryant, who died in January in a helicopter crash that also claimed the life of his daughter Gianna and seven others. Magic Johnson, prominently featured in the episode, said he will watch at home with his wife Cookie, and noted that the episode should matter “especially [in Los Angeles]” for Kobe fans. The documentary’s midpoint covers the 1997-98 Bulls season, aligning with Bryant’s first NBA All-Star appearance and Jordan’s final one with Chicago. Johnson described an evolving bond between the two stars, including Bryant’s admiration for Jordan and his desire to match him both on and off the court. He also said he learned more about their closeness only after Jordan’s tearful speech at Bryant’s February memorial at Staples Center.