Norm Nixon Now: 5 Shocking Revelations From The 'Showtime' Legend On Magic Johnson, Winning Time, And The NBA's Legitimacy

Former Los Angeles Lakers point guard Norm Nixon remains one of the most compelling and outspoken figures from the legendary "Showtime" era of the NBA. While his on-court legacy is cemented by two NBA championships, his life post-retirement has been a fascinating blend of high-stakes business, philanthropy, and a prominent role in Hollywood's inner circle. As of late 2024 and early 2025, Nixon has re-entered the spotlight with fresh, candid comments on the HBO series Winning Time and his surprising critique of a current NBA powerhouse, proving that the two-time All-Star still has plenty to say about the league he helped define.

The transition from the fast-break offense of the Los Angeles Lakers to a career in sports management and the arts is a testament to Nixon’s versatility. This article delves into the latest updates on his life, career, and the surprising details he has recently revealed about his time with the Lakers and his family life with his iconic wife, Debbie Allen.

Norm Nixon: Complete Biography and Professional Profile

Norman Ellard Nixon is an American former professional basketball player known for his speed, passing ability, and role as the starting point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers before the arrival of Magic Johnson. His career spanned 12 seasons in the NBA, establishing him as a key figure in the league’s most glamorous decade.

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• Full Name: Norman Ellard Nixon
• Date of Birth: October 11, 1955
• Place of Birth: Macon, Georgia, USA
• Height: 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
• High School: Southwest High School (Macon, Georgia)
• College: Duquesne University
• NBA Draft: 1st Round (22nd overall) of the 1977 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers
• NBA Teams: Los Angeles Lakers (1977–1983), San Diego / Los Angeles Clippers (1983–1989)
• Career Highlights: 2× NBA Champion (1980, 1982), 2× NBA All-Star (1982, 1985)
• NBA Career Stats: Averaged 15.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 1.5 steals per game over 768 regular-season games.
• Wife: Debbie Allen (Married 1984)
• Children: Vivian Nichole Nixon, Norman Nixon Jr., and DeVaughn Nixon (son from a previous relationship).
• Current Role: Co-Founder of the Debbie Allen Dance Academy (DADA), Sports/Entertainment Agent, and NBA Analyst.

The Truth Behind the Magic Johnson 'Beef' and Winning Time

One of the most talked-about storylines from the HBO series Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty was the intense, often antagonistic relationship between Norm Nixon and the rookie sensation, Magic Johnson. The series depicted a fierce rivalry and a power struggle for the starting point guard position on the Lakers, suggesting significant friction between the two stars.

Nixon recently addressed this portrayal directly, stating that the "beef" was significantly exaggerated for entertainment purposes. While he confirmed that the competition was real—as it is in any professional sports environment—he maintains that the series blew the rivalry "way out of proportion." This clarification offers a fresh perspective on the historical narrative, suggesting that the dramatic tension seen on screen was not an accurate reflection of their day-to-day dynamic.

Nixon's comments highlight the difference between Hollywood dramatization and historical reality, especially concerning the transition of the Lakers' leadership from established veterans like himself and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to the charismatic newcomer, Magic Johnson. The veteran point guard’s perspective is crucial for understanding the true internal workings of the "Showtime Lakers," a dynasty that won two NBA Finals with Nixon at the helm.

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Norm Nixon's Candid Critique of the Modern NBA

In a recent and widely reported statement, Norm Nixon stirred controversy by questioning the "legitimacy" of a top NBA contender, the Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite the Cavaliers having one of the best records in the league at the time of his comments, Nixon told TMZ Sports that he was "not entirely sold" on their ability to win a championship.

This kind of unfiltered analysis is typical of Nixon, who has not shied away from comparing his era to the modern game. He has often applauded the psychological toughness of the 1960s and 1970s players, suggesting that the younger generation of stars may lack the same mental fortitude. Nixon’s critique of the current NBA often centers on the evolution of rules, particularly those that protect offensive players, which he believes makes the game easier today.

He once famously posed the question: "Can you imagine if you couldn't touch Kareem or Doc?"—referring to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Julius "Dr. J" Erving—implying that the physical nature of the game in his era demanded a different level of toughness. His recent comments on the Cleveland Cavaliers demonstrate that he remains an active, opinionated analyst who values old-school grit and proven playoff success over regular-season records.

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Beyond the Court: From Sports Agent to Dance Academy Co-Founder

Norm Nixon's post-NBA career is as impressive and multifaceted as his playing days. Upon retiring in 1989, he immediately pivoted into the business world, focusing on sports and entertainment management. This career path allowed him to negotiate over $200 million in contracts, showcasing his acumen off the court.

His business ventures include:

• Norm Nixon & Associates: He established his own talent agency, helping athletes and entertainers manage their careers and business interests.
• Premier Management Group: Nixon also served as a sports agent at this firm, further establishing his presence in the management world.
• NBA Analyst: He currently provides analyst work for KABC-TV’s postgame coverage of ABC’s NBA telecasts, keeping him connected to the professional game.

However, perhaps his most enduring legacy outside of basketball is his co-founding of the Debbie Allen Dance Academy (DADA) in 2001 alongside his wife, the legendary actress, director, and choreographer Debbie Allen. DADA is a non-profit organization in Los Angeles dedicated to providing a comprehensive dance curriculum to students from all backgrounds, regardless of their ability to pay. Nixon's role as co-founder and business partner in DADA showcases his deep commitment to the arts and community development, a stark but beautiful contrast to the cutthroat world of the NBA.

The Nixon-Allen Dynasty: A Power Couple in Sports and Entertainment

Norm Nixon's marriage to Debbie Allen since 1984 has created one of the most enduring and influential power couples in the intersection of sports and Hollywood. Their long-lasting partnership is a foundation of their shared philanthropic and professional endeavors.

The couple shares three talented children who have followed their parents into the entertainment industry:

• Vivian Nichole Nixon: A professional dancer, actress, and singer, she has appeared on Broadway and in various television roles.
• Norman Nixon Jr.: Known as "Wrecktangle," he is a musician and producer, continuing the family's artistic legacy.
• DeVaughn Nixon: An actor who has appeared in numerous films and television shows, including a role in the HBO series Winning Time, ironically playing his own father, Norm Nixon, in the early seasons.

The family’s collective work, particularly through the Debbie Allen Dance Academy, has cemented their status not just as celebrities, but as cultural institutions in Los Angeles and beyond. Norm Nixon’s life today is a powerful demonstration of how a legendary athlete can successfully transition his competitive drive and business sense into multiple, impactful second careers, all while maintaining a strong voice in the sport that made him famous. From challenging the legitimacy of modern NBA teams to clarifying the historical record of the Showtime Lakers, Nixon remains a compelling figure whose story continues to evolve.