Sam Smith, a Chicago Tribune columnist and former president of the Professional Basketball Writers Association, presented Jamison with the award. Mitchell Layton/NBAE/Getty Images

The award honors an NBA player who combines excellence on the court with outstanding cooperation with the media and, by extension, the fans.

Established in 2001, the award is named after former Los Angeles Lakers great Earvin “Magic” Johnson, a Hall of Fame player and one of the NBA’s most popular and effective ambassadors ever. Johnson, with former Boston star Larry Bird, generally is credited with reviving interest in the league in the 1980s and ’90s and sparking its widespread popularity.

“It’s definitely a prestigious award,” said Jamison. “I take great pride in being noticed by the media. I respect their jobs, understand what they are trying to do and understand that it’s my job to make sure that I accommodate them in every facet. To have their approval says a lot. It means a lot and I am very honored to have my name associated with Magic Johnson.”

Jamison, a 6-foot-9 forward, averaged 19.6 points and 7.6 rebounds in 2004-05 and earned his first All-Star selection as a member of the 2005 Eastern Conference squad. Jamison led the Wizards to their best record (45-37) in 26 seasons and their first postseason appearance since the 1996-97 season. In voting by PBWA members, Jamison finished with a total of 90 points in a system that awards five points for a first-place vote, three for a second-place vote and one for each third-place vote.

Milwaukee’s Michael Redd was second with 62 points, and Miami’s Dwyane Wade placed third with 57 points. Other players nominated by PBWA members were San Antonio’s Manu Ginobili and Charlotte’s Brevin Knight.

“The PBWA is proud to present Antawn Jamison with the Magic Johnson Award for 2005,” said Steve Aschburner, president of the PBWA. “Antawn’s performance as an All-Star player spoke for itself this season. His willingness to work with the media enriched the fans’ understanding of the game, his team and the league, and made him a terrific choice for this honor.”

The PBWA represents writers for newspapers, magazines and Internet services who cover the NBA on a regular basis.

Jamison was presented with the Magic Johnson Award prior to tip-off of Game 4 of the first round playoff series between the Wizards and Bulls at MCI Center.

ALL-TIME MAGIC JOHNSON AWARD WINNERS
2001: Ray Allen, Milwaukee Bucks
2002: Elton Brand, Los Angeles Clippers
2003: Jalen Rose, Chicago Bulls
2004: Jermaine O'Neal, Indiana Pacers
2005: Antawn Jamison, Washington Wizards