A legendary basketball player and coach who dominated the court with his clutch shooting and all-around skills, leading the Boston Celtics to multiple championships.
Larry Bird, affectionately known as "Larry Legend," is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. With an impressive resume that includes three NBA championships, three MVP awards, and 12 NBA All-Star appearances, Bird is a household name in the world of basketball.
Born on December 7, 1956, in West Baden Springs, Indiana, Bird grew up in a small town called French Lick. He developed a passion for basketball at a young age, and his talent was evident from the start. Bird's high school basketball team won the Indiana state championship in 1975, and he was named the Indiana Mr. Basketball that same year.
Bird initially signed with Indiana University to play under legendary coach Bob Knight, but he dropped out after one month and attended a local college instead. The following year, he transferred to Indiana State University, where he played for three years. In 1978, Bird was drafted by the Boston Celtics with the sixth overall pick, but he opted to stay in college for another year. During his senior year, Bird led the Sycamores to an undefeated regular season, earning them a spot in the national championship game against Michigan State.
Bird finally entered the NBA in 1979, and his impact was immediate. He started at power forward and led the Celtics to a 32-win improvement over the previous season. Bird played for the Celtics for 13 seasons, leading them to five NBA Finals appearances and three NBA championships. During his career, he formed a formidable front court with Kevin McHale and Robert Parish, which many consider the greatest in NBA history.
Larry Bird's legacy extends far beyond his impressive basketball career. He is widely credited with popularizing the NBA in the 1980s, and his rivalry with Magic Johnson is often referred to as the catalyst for the league's surge in popularity during that era. Bird's influence on modern basketball is undeniable, and he remains one of the most beloved and respected figures in the sport.
After retiring from basketball in 1992, Bird transitioned into coaching and became the head coach of the Indiana Pacers from 1997 to 2000. He led the team to two Eastern Conference finals appearances and was named NBA Coach of the Year in 1998 and 2000. Bird then moved into the front office, serving as the Pacers' president of basketball operations from 2003 to 2012.
Bird married Dinah Mattingly in 1989, and the couple has two adopted children, Connor and Corrie. Bird is known for his humble and down-to-earth personality, and he has remained dedicated to his hometown of French Lick throughout his career. In 1998, Bird donated $3.5 million to Indiana State University to establish the Larry Bird Scholarship Fund.
"I don't know if I practiced then, but I should have. I don't know if I practice now, but I do. And I'll tell you why: because I'm an athlete, and I want to be the best athlete I can be." - Larry Bird
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