During the 1989-90 NBA season, Charles Barkley and Magic Johnson had an intense battle for the MVP award. While Barkley received more first-place votes, Johnson ultimately won the award due to receiving more second and third-place votes. Barkley had led his Philadelphia 76ers to a 53-29 record, while Johnson had led his Los Angeles Lakers to the top of the league with a 63-win season. However, the race was close, with Johnson winning by just 22 points. Some critics argued that Barkley had been robbed of the award. Barkley later changed his jersey number from 34 to 32 in honor of Magic after he retired due to HIV. Interestingly, Barkley would win the MVP award the following season after being traded to the Phoenix Suns. Meanwhile, Michael Jordan, who had also had a great season in 1990, finished third in the MVP voting. Ultimately, the 1990 MVP race remains a point of contention for basketball fans, with some arguing that Barkley deserved the award over Johnson.