Marques Johnson – Milwaukee Bucks Legend Celebrates 50 Years of Franchise History
Marques Johnson stands as one of the most significant figures in Milwaukee Bucks history. The talented forward was selected third overall in the 1977 NBA draft by Milwaukee, where he would spend seven productive seasons building his legacy. Today, Johnson serves as a color analyst for Bucks broadcasts, bringing his deep knowledge and passion for the game to a new generation of fans.
Johnson’s playing credentials speak volumes about his talent. As a five-time NBA All-Star, he established himself as one of the premier forwards of his era. His journey began with college success, where he became the first-ever recipient of the prestigious Wooden Award. This success translated seamlessly to the professional ranks, where Johnson helped establish the Bucks as a competitive force throughout his tenure with the team.
The recognition of Johnson’s contributions continues to grow. He was recently named a finalist for the Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2025, a well-deserved honor that acknowledges his significant impact on basketball. His continued presence around the franchise bridges different eras of Bucks basketball, connecting today’s championship-caliber team with the rich history of the organization.
Contents
Early Life and Background
Marques Kevin Johnson was born on February 8, 1956, in South Los Angeles. His basketball journey began at an early age and was shaped by strong family influence and exceptional talent that would eventually take him to NBA stardom.
South Los Angeles Origins
Growing up in South Los Angeles, Johnson was the only boy among five Johnson children. His father played a critical role in his basketball development. From the moment young Marques could hold a basketball, it became an extension of his hands.
The neighborhood courts became his training ground, where hours of practice forged his skills. Unlike many of his peers, Johnson had the advantage of dedicated parental guidance.
His father’s influence cannot be overstated. The disciplined approach to the game instilled during these formative years would later become evident in Johnson’s professional play style and work ethic.
Crenshaw High School Highlights
At Crenshaw High School, Johnson flourished under the tutelage of legendary Head Coach Willie West. His natural talent combined with disciplined coaching produced remarkable results.
In 1973, Johnson reached a significant milestone when he was named Los Angeles City Section 4-A Division Player of the Year. This recognition cemented his status as one of the top high school prospects in the country.
Johnson’s play at Crenshaw showcased his versatility, athleticism, and basketball IQ. He dominated local competition with a mature game that seemed beyond his years.
His high school performances attracted attention from major college programs nationwide, setting the stage for his next basketball chapter.
UCLA Triumphs
Johnson chose to stay close to home, joining the storied UCLA Bruins program. His college career proved to be exceptional and filled with accolades.
The pinnacle came in 1975 when he helped lead UCLA to an NCAA championship under Coach John Wooden’s final season. Johnson’s contributions were instrumental to the team’s success.
His individual honors accumulated quickly. Most notably, Johnson won the first-ever Naismith College Player of the Year award, establishing himself as the premier collegiate player in America.
By the end of his UCLA career, Johnson had positioned himself as an elite NBA prospect. In 1977, his basketball journey continued when he was drafted third overall by the Milwaukee Bucks, beginning a new chapter in his basketball story.
NBA Draft and Early Career
Marques Johnson’s journey to the NBA began with a standout college career at UCLA, setting the stage for his selection by the Milwaukee Bucks in 1977. His arrival in Milwaukee marked the beginning of a remarkable professional career that would help reshape the franchise.
Drafted by the Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks selected Marques Johnson with the third overall pick in the 1977 NBA draft. Johnson entered the league with impressive credentials as the College Player of the Year from UCLA, where his jersey number 54 would later be retired.
Don Nelson, the Bucks’ head coach at the time, saw Johnson as a cornerstone for the team’s rebuilding efforts. The selection made perfect sense – Johnson brought a combination of scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and basketball IQ that Milwaukee desperately needed.
His rookie contract, while modest by today’s standards, represented a significant investment for the Bucks as they looked to recapture the glory of their early 1970s championship era.
Joining a Legacy
Johnson stepped into a franchise with a proud but recent history. Just six years earlier, the Bucks had won their only NBA championship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar leading the way. By the time Johnson arrived, however, the team was in transition.
The young forward faced the challenge of helping to establish a new identity for Milwaukee basketball. He joined veterans like Brian Winters and Junior Bridgeman, forming a nucleus that would define Bucks basketball for the next era.
Johnson’s game complemented Nelson’s coaching philosophy perfectly – emphasizing fundamentals, team play, and versatility. His ability to play multiple positions made him especially valuable in Nelson’s system that prioritized matchup advantages.
Rookie Acclamation
Johnson’s impact was immediate and substantial. In his debut season, he averaged an impressive 19.5 points and 10.6 rebounds per game. These statistics demonstrated why the Bucks had valued him so highly in the draft.
His outstanding rookie campaign earned him a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Team, confirming his status as one of the league’s most promising young players. Johnson’s play helped the Bucks improve significantly from the previous season.
Johnson’s Rookie Season Stats (1977-78)
| Category | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Points | 19.5 ppg |
| Rebounds | 10.6 rpg |
| Games | 82 |
| Minutes | 36.4 mpg |
Johnson quickly established himself as a fan favorite at the MECCA, Milwaukee’s arena at the time. His smooth playing style, basketball intelligence, and work ethic endeared him to the knowledgeable Bucks faithful who recognized they were witnessing the birth of a new franchise cornerstone.
Rise to Stardom
Marques Johnson quickly established himself as one of the NBA’s premier forwards after being selected third overall in the 1977 NBA draft. His combination of scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and basketball IQ made him a cornerstone of the Milwaukee Bucks franchise.
All-Star Appearances
Johnson’s exceptional play earned him well-deserved recognition from fans and peers alike. He represented the Milwaukee Bucks in three consecutive All-Star games from 1979 to 1981, becoming one of the team’s most celebrated players during this period.
His first All-Star selection came in just his second professional season, a testament to how quickly he adapted to the NBA game after his stellar UCLA career. During these All-Star appearances, Johnson showcased the same versatility that made him invaluable to the Bucks.
What made Johnson’s All-Star selections particularly impressive was that he earned them during an era filled with legendary forwards. He competed for spots against players like Julius Erving, Larry Bird, and Adrian Dantley.
All-NBA Team Recognitions
Johnson’s excellence wasn’t limited to All-Star appearances. He earned All-NBA honors multiple times during his tenure with the Bucks, solidifying his status among the league’s elite.
He made the All-NBA First Team in 1979, placing him among the five best players in the entire league that season. Additionally, he secured Second Team honors in 1980 and Third Team recognition in 1981.
These selections highlighted Johnson’s consistent excellence and versatility as a forward. He was among the first players to be called a “point forward” – a position that combined traditional forward skills with playmaking abilities typically associated with guards.
Peak Performance Stats
Johnson’s statistical production during his prime years with Milwaukee was nothing short of remarkable. During the 1978-79 season, he averaged 25.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game, demonstrating his all-around effectiveness.
| Season | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Steals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1977-78 | 19.5 | 10.6 | 2.4 | 1.2 |
| 1978-79 | 25.6 | 7.6 | 3.0 | 1.5 |
| 1979-80 | 21.7 | 7.2 | 3.6 | 1.3 |
| 1980-81 | 20.3 | 6.9 | 4.6 | 1.4 |
As a rookie in 1977-78, Johnson immediately made his presence felt, averaging 19.5 points and 10.6 rebounds while playing in all 80 games and leading the Bucks in minutes.
His versatility allowed him to affect games in multiple ways. Johnson could take over scoring responsibilities when needed or focus on rebounding and facilitating for teammates. This adaptability made him particularly valuable to Milwaukee’s offensive schemes.
Key Relationships and Influences
Marques Johnson’s time with the Milwaukee Bucks was shaped by significant relationships that molded his career and playing style. His development as one of the NBA’s most versatile forwards came through mentorship and camaraderie with coaches and teammates alike.
Don Nelson’s Coaching Impact
Don Nelson’s innovative coaching philosophy transformed Johnson’s game during their time together in Milwaukee. Nelson, known for his unconventional strategies, recognized Johnson’s unique skillset and deployed him as what became known as a “point forward” – a position Nelson essentially created for Johnson.
“Nellie saw something in me that other coaches didn’t,” Johnson once reflected. “He let me bring the ball up court and initiate the offense despite being 6’7″.”
Under Nelson’s guidance, Johnson earned three of his five NBA All-Star selections and developed into a complete player. Nelson’s trust in Johnson’s basketball IQ allowed him to flourish in ways that would influence future generations of players.
Their relationship wasn’t without tensions, as Nelson’s demanding style occasionally clashed with Johnson’s creativity, but the results were undeniable with Johnson helping the Bucks jump from 30-52 to 44-38 as a rookie.
Teammates’ Influence
Johnson’s development in Milwaukee benefited tremendously from playing alongside elite teammates. Sidney Moncrief, whose defensive intensity complemented Johnson’s offensive prowess, formed one of the NBA’s most dynamic wing duos with Marques from 1979-1984.
Bob Lanier, the veteran center acquired in 1980, provided leadership and interior presence that allowed Johnson more freedom on the perimeter. Their on-court chemistry was immediate and productive.
Junior Bridgeman, Johnson’s longtime teammate, brought consistency and professionalism that rubbed off on the entire squad. Together, they formed the core of Milwaukee’s contending teams of the early 1980s.
Johnson’s college experience under legendary UCLA coach John Wooden also shaped his professional approach. Wooden’s fundamentals-first philosophy remained evident in Johnson’s disciplined play throughout his Bucks career.
| Johnson’s All-Star Seasons with Bucks | PPG | RPG | APG | FG% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1978-79 | 25.6 | 7.6 | 3.0 | 55.0 |
| 1979-80 | 21.7 | 7.2 | 4.5 | 53.2 |
| 1980-81 | 20.3 | 6.6 | 4.1 | 55.0 |
Playoff Campaigns and Championship Quests
Marques Johnson led the Milwaukee Bucks through several memorable playoff runs during his tenure with the team. His exceptional performances in high-pressure situations showcased his elite talent and competitive spirit.
Perennial Playoff Presence
During Johnson’s era, the Bucks became fixtures in the NBA playoffs. His leadership proved instrumental to their success. In the 1980-81 season, Johnson helped guide the Bucks to an impressive 60-22 regular season record, establishing them as serious contenders.
Johnson’s Bucks made the playoffs in each of his seven seasons with the team from 1977 to 1984. Under coach Don Nelson’s guidance, the team’s consistency was remarkable, especially in the competitive Eastern Conference.
In the 1983 playoffs, Johnson’s heroics were on full display. He scored a game-high 35 points in a crucial contest, helping the team set multiple franchise playoff records for field goal efficiency.
Chasing the NBA Finals
Despite their regular season dominance, Johnson and the Bucks fell short of reaching the ultimate stage. The 1984 playoffs represented one of their best opportunities to break through to the championship round.
That season, Johnson and his teammates pushed toward what many called the “Dream Showcase” – the NBA Finals. They advanced deep into the Eastern Conference playoffs but couldn’t quite reach the championship series.
The early 1980s Bucks teams featuring Johnson, Sidney Moncrief, and Bob Lanier were perpetually in the mix, but ran into formidable obstacles in the Eastern Conference, including the eventual champion Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers.
| Season | Playoff Result | PPG in Playoffs |
|---|---|---|
| 1980-81 | Eastern Conf. Semifinals | 22.1 |
| 1981-82 | Eastern Conf. Semifinals | 19.8 |
| 1982-83 | Eastern Conf. Finals | 20.3 |
| 1983-84 | Eastern Conf. Finals | 21.4 |
Transition and Later Career
Marques Johnson’s basketball journey took significant turns after his prime years with the Milwaukee Bucks. His career path included notable stops with two West Coast teams and a brief stint in the Midwest before hanging up his sneakers.
Trades and Team Changes
After seven successful seasons with the Bucks, Johnson was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers in 1984. This move marked a major shift in his career trajectory. The trade came as a surprise to many fans, especially considering Johnson’s impact in Milwaukee where he had helped transform the team from a 30-52 record to a much-improved 44-38 mark during his rookie season.
The financial aspects of this transition were significant. While with the Bucks, Johnson had earned approximately $1.1 million over six seasons. His new contract represented a substantial increase, as he signed a deal worth $8 million over eight years. This contract reflected his value as a top-tier talent in the league.
Final Years on the Court
Johnson’s time with the Clippers was followed by a brief stint with the Golden State Warriors, where he continued to demonstrate his skills despite being in the latter stages of his career. Unfortunately, his playing days were cut shorter than expected due to a neck injury that effectively ended his time on the court.
Throughout his 11-year NBA career, Johnson maintained impressive statistics even as his role evolved:
| Team | Seasons | PPG | RPG | APG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bucks | 1977-1984 | 21.0 | 7.5 | 3.7 |
| Clippers | 1984-1987 | 17.3 | 5.1 | 3.3 |
| Warriors | 1989-1990 | 10.8 | 3.9 | 2.2 |
Johnson’s basketball knowledge didn’t go to waste after retirement. He eventually found a new calling as a TV color analyst for the Bucks, bringing his deep understanding of the game to fans in a different capacity.
Style of Play and Contributions
Marques Johnson revolutionized forward play in the NBA during his time with the Milwaukee Bucks. His versatility and efficiency made him a cornerstone of the franchise’s success in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
The Point Forward
Johnson is widely credited as one of the first “point forwards” in NBA history. This innovative role combined traditional forward responsibilities with playmaking duties typically reserved for guards. The 6’7″ Johnson handled the ball extensively, initiated offense, and created scoring opportunities for teammates while maintaining his own scoring prowess.
His fluid playing style helped transform how forwards operated in the league. Johnson possessed exceptional court vision and ball-handling skills that were uncommon for players at his position during that era.
Breaking the mold in numerous ways, Johnson’s approach paved the way for versatile forwards who would dominate future NBA generations. His ability to defend multiple positions further enhanced his value to the Bucks’ schemes.
Statistical Impact and Efficiency
Johnson’s numbers with Milwaukee demonstrate his remarkable consistency and efficiency. During his seven seasons with the Bucks, he averaged 21.0 points per game while shooting an impressive 53% from the field.
His rebounding prowess was equally notable, averaging 7.5 rebounds per game during his Milwaukee tenure. This combination of scoring and rebounding made him one of the most productive forwards of his era.
| Season | PPG | RPG | FG% | True Shooting % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1977-78 | 19.5 | 10.6 | 52.5 | 57.6 |
| 1978-79 | 25.6 | 7.6 | 55.2 | 59.5 |
| 1979-80 | 21.7 | 7.2 | 53.8 | 58.7 |
| 1980-81 | 20.3 | 6.7 | 53.3 | 58.2 |
Johnson earned three All-NBA selections while with Milwaukee, a testament to his efficient scoring and all-around impact. His effective field goal percentage consistently ranked among the league’s best for non-centers, showcasing his shot selection and offensive intelligence.
Legacy and Honors
Marques Johnson’s impact on basketball extends far beyond his playing days, cementing his place among the sport’s elite through prestigious recognitions and permanent tributes to his excellence.
Hall of Fame Induction
Johnson’s basketball journey includes significant Hall of Fame recognition. In 2013, Johnson was inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame, honoring his stellar UCLA career where he won the John R. Wooden Award in 1977.
More recently, Johnson has been building momentum for basketball’s highest honor. He became a finalist for the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame’s 2025 class, continuing his candidacy after previous considerations.
His Hall of Fame case is compelling. Johnson earned All-NBA First Team honors in 1979 while averaging 25.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game – elite production that many believe is more deserving than some already enshrined players.
Jersey Retirement and Recognitions
The Milwaukee Bucks immortalized Johnson’s contributions by retiring his No. 8 jersey, ensuring no future Buck will wear his number. This honor acknowledges his pivotal role during his tenure with the team, where he helped lead Milwaukee under legendary coach Don Nelson after being selected third overall in the 1977 NBA draft.
UCLA also recognized Johnson’s collegiate greatness by retiring his No. 54 jersey. His college accolades include the prestigious John R. Wooden Award in 1977, identifying him as the nation’s most outstanding player.
Beyond these formal honors, Johnson has maintained his connection to the Bucks organization as a respected television analyst, bringing his basketball knowledge and perspective to a new generation of fans.
Life After Basketball
Following his NBA career, Marques Johnson successfully transitioned into broadcasting, acting, and family life, building a diverse portfolio of accomplishments beyond the hardwood.
Media Career
Johnson has carved out an impressive second career as a Milwaukee Bucks color analyst on Fox Sports Wisconsin. His basketball acumen and engaging personality have made him a fan favorite in the broadcast booth.
Before joining the Bucks’ broadcasting team, Johnson worked for various networks including Fox Sports and ESPN, providing expert analysis and commentary. His deep understanding of the game and articulate delivery style have earned him respect throughout the industry.
Johnson’s media presence extends to social media, where he maintains an active profile. His Instagram account (@olskool888) gives fans glimpses into his life and basketball insights. He frequently engages with followers about current NBA topics and shares memories from his playing days.
Acting Ventures
Johnson’s Hollywood career began in the 1990s with several notable film appearances. His most recognized role came in the 1992 basketball comedy “White Men Can’t Jump,” where he played Raymond, showcasing his natural on-screen charisma.
He built on this success with roles in other basketball-themed films including “Blue Chips” and “Forget Paris.” These performances established Johnson as one of the more successful athlete-to-actor crossovers in sports.
More recently, Johnson voiced a character in the animated series “The Legends of Chamberlain Heights,” further demonstrating his versatility in entertainment. His acting career spans nearly three decades, proving his appeal extends well beyond basketball courts.
Family and Personal Life
Johnson’s family has always been a central part of his life. His son Kris Johnson has been particularly vocal about his father’s basketball legacy and Hall of Fame worthiness. Kris wrote pieces that highlight both professional achievements and personal character.
The Johnson family experienced tragedy when Marques’ son Josiah died in 2017. Despite this personal loss, Johnson has shown remarkable resilience. He continued his professional commitments while honoring his son’s memory.
Today, Johnson balances his broadcasting duties with family time and public appearances. His ongoing connection to the Bucks organization has kept him close to the game he loves. It also allows him to build a fulfilling life beyond basketball.
