Who in the hell is going to be in a position in which their life is on the line and their fate depends on someone shooting a basketball? Good luck with that.
Larry wasn't slow, he had an excellent first step - enough to get by the defender. Triple threat basketball: An inch too close and he just blows by you, an inch too far and he just shoots over anybody, double team him and he finds the open man for an easy layup. "MJ made you look slow, Larry made you look stupid" - Michael Cooper
This "he was 'slow" stuff is just garbage. Besides being quick, you will never find any film that shows someone catching him on a break. You also don't average 10 boards a game when you "can't jump". His numbers would have been even better if he had not to play through injuries.
And I remember when Magic Johnson was like ohh shit this is gonna be a long night. He knew that nobody on that Lakers team could stop him. He went up to Magic Johnson and told him exactly what he was gonna do and Magic told his teammates what Larry was gonna do and Larry still did it and Magic said years later that this guy is the best forward ever to play the game.
@@leo29hornsfanMcHale gave the Lakers more trouble than anyone. Didnt Bird say Cooper was his toughest defender. After Magic hit the hook shot in game 4 87 Finals. Bird said Magic was the best he'd ever seen.
I never get tired of Larry Bird stories. His entire life story is such an inspiration. I think part of why I love it is that I live in Indiana, went to ISU, and live in Terre Haute. Basketball in those years was everything in Indiana from high school on.
I was born in 79 about 50 miles south of Chicago so of course I was a bulls fan. But when I became aware of Larry I was an instant fan of the way he played. Now as an adult learning how he carried himself, and that he really doesn't give a crap about the color of anyone besides the jersey on their back. The man is a great role model and much like another of my favorites, Doctor J, he's pure class.
I used to live right down the road from the Eagle Ranch. I miss it there beautiful area. Never did see Larry though. He was one of only reasons I actually watched Ball.
It is the intelligence that does it. He isn't that fast, but he understands the play developing before everyone else. Because of that, it wasn't that he was quick, but that he was just a half step ahead of everyone else. Here is a way to demostrate that. I drive a Kia, Soul, with 4 tiny hamsters on their little hamster wheels. When at intersections I am familiar with, I am watching the lights on the cross traffic. Due to that, I know in advance when my light will go green and am preparing for it before others. Because of that advanced notice, it is easy for my 4 little hamsters to beat V8s off the line. I don't have the better engine, just an advantage in reaction time. That is what Bird had. Basketball smarts meant he was just playing the game a half second ahead of everyone else. From my experience, that beats the difference in speed every time.
100%. You can't do the things Bird did withough elite athleticism, something that can be measured in many different ways. No, he couldn't run the 40 as fast as most. He couldn't jump as high as most. His dunks weren't going to posterize anyone. But hand-eye coordination, passing and shooting ability, and anticipation are all athletic skills, and Larry had all in spades. Just look at how often he would shoot off balance. That's athleticism.
Exactly, his athleticism was more kinesthetic than it was gross measurements. He also had an uncanny sense of where everyone on the court was and where they were going to be. Along with his ability to process information so quickly, he seemed to be just exactly in the right place at the right time.
David Robinson is a class act. We all know Bird was out of this world. I just love how respectful and positive The Admiral is when he talks about Bird.
Yeah, but the player David feared was the big African. Hakeem. He probably still has nightmares about that ass whipping he took the night he won the MVP.
LW07....In total agreement w/ you regarding David Robinson..one gentleman said something about Robinson and the truth....maybe not a la Paul Pierce, but I David was a Christian believer...then he KNOWS the One who is the TRUTH. Thank you!
@@thomaswelsh5735 He was really the best face of the NBA... Gentleman, Military Academy Graduate, Champion...will always be a FAN! Didn't know he was a man of faith but I am certainly not surprised!🙏
@@mattblatchley2061 Those yeams with Duncan, Parker, Ginobili and of course the Admiral were a tightly knit group. I have to laugh because they get Robert Horry and he's soso until the game is on the line back to jacking gw shots, gets another ring.
Anyone that's ever actually seen Larry Bird play.... I do not understand how they can say the man was unathletic! That guy was all over the court... he was 2 or 3 steps ahead of everybody else on every play ...give me a break!
I was born in '79, and remember the Bird dominating. Like Magic said, "you can't give him an inch." I've been saying that as a child. As a former New Yorker, I couldn't stand Bird, but I did respect his game.
Yes, he was quick. And when he was younger, he had that third gear. If you watch enough, or were here back then to see him play, you'll know what I mean. He could move fast. He just didn't have to. He was all over the place as it was.
I grew up watching 80’s basketball…but honestly youtube has given me a new appreciation for Larry Bird because of all the interviews and clips out there. Great vid.
Larry is the reason I continued watching basketball. Didn't even know who da hell he was. I guess I got lucky that my dad told me to watch to confirm if he won his bet.
I miss those days and basketball was great! there were many great players in that era. The bird was my favorite love the way he played the game. It seems every game he gave it his all.!
OMG I hated Larry and the Celtics back then BUT anyone that says he couldn't play...never saw him play. Dude was unstoppable. Could do everything!! Defense or Offense, he played HARD!!!
I watched the Celts everytime they came on TV and Bird is and always will be my GOAT! Could you imagin Bird in todays rules! HA! He would have 20 points a game just on FT's never mind him concentrating on the 3 more. Plus these guys are soft mentally and he would just have a buffett every night!
Not sure how many times I saw teams get a 3 on 1 fast break on him and they would make a pass or two and suddenly he would be going the other way with the ball while 3 guys looked at each other confused. He just understood angles and physics on the court better than everyone else.
I can listen to GP talk about Larry and Stockton all day.. you can hear in his voice the respect, even without words, just his tone of amazement.. plus the way he described them is hilarious.. love GP
Yes! And Gary makes the best point - Bird didn't have to jump high or be super athletic. He could beat you just fine with the skill set he had and his court IQ...plus he could hit the hoop from anywhere he wanted. Anywhere at all. #LarryLegend ☘️
Really nice combination of legends here. I've heard most of these and more but it never gets old. Massive respect from one's peers is the ultimate tribute to a man's game and character.
Kareem said it best. Bird wasn't the fastest or most athletic, but the muscle between his ears was constantly maxed out. Also going back to what Dumars said he was a Savant on the court.
The reason Dr J attacked Larry Bird was Larry kept running down the floor repeating to Dr J the score between the two players. For example 38-6. This meant Bird scored 38 points to DrJ scoring 6 points. Can you imagine that. That is why Dr J strangled Bird in anger.
The reason Dr J attacked Larry Bird was Larry kept running down the floor repeating to Dr J the score between the two players. For example 38-6. This meant Bird scored 38 points to DrJ scoring 6 points. Can you imagine that. That is why Dr J strangled Bird in anger.
The reason Dr J attacked Larry Bird was Larry kept running down the floor repeating to Dr J the score between the two players. For example 38-6. This meant Bird scored 38 points to DrJ scoring 6 points. Can you imagine that. That is why Dr J strangled Bird in anger..
@markminister2599 very old Dr j retirement/ nursing home 🏡 dr.j ,,,,Nikola jokic & LeBron James & dirk nowitzki each would've score 50s points against 1980s larry bird , larry bird would've told coach k.c Jones help, help,, take out the game got a Nikola jokic & LeBron James & dirk nowitzki headache, throw white towel white flag
I took my 11-year-old son to Larry Bird's very first basketball camp. When I first saw Larry I shook his hand and watched my hand disappear into his hand as if it were a major-league baseball glove. They say he is 6-9? I always thought he was at least a bit closer to being 6-10. Anyway, we proceed through this [maybe, and very likely] the only basketball camp, LB ever did? And at this time, maybe, 1984, did we have any idea how super-great this man already was in the NBA ? Not a clue but I tell you now,, we both know it now and we feel so blessed to have spent 2 or 3 weeks with LB at his original [gift] basketball ball camp.
There is a shot in this compilation where he is slapping hands with McHale and KM is a very rangy 6'10" and you can tell Larry is a little shorter, but it doesn't even look like a full inch. I think those guys either fudged a little on their heights or they were just built like they were taller...long arms and wide shoulders.
Wow man. What an honor that must be to look back on. Just WOW. I would absolutely LOVE to see Larry Bird in person and shake his hand. I have NEVER been all woozy over a celebrity ...not a single one... but Larry Bird is the only Celebrity that I would probably stumble over myself if I got to meet him. Just an amazing human being all the way through and through. I'm envious.
Larry Bird was the Greatest forward to ever play . I grew up watching him and saw him live at Boston he scored 48 pts . He was the most electrifying player ever . He played with all heart and was smart and could shoot a shot anywhere and hit it .
…The speed, the size, the athleticism, the agility, the jumping ability…..and they’re all greyhounds running the court. Larry Bird wouldn’t get a shot off. There’s no way he could guard anyone. He’d then have be taken out in 2 minutes for a breather. He’d be gassed. Dennis Rodman said…..”If Larry Bird were playing today he’d be riding the bench in Europe”….That’s simply the evolution of the game. Larry wouldn’t be a college star today. This isn’t the NBA where the centers lope back into your tv picture 4 seconds after everyone is down court.
@@ynotttt All that was said about LB when he came into the NBA. They were wrong then and you are wrong now. LB would have the soft dudes playing today crying after the first quarter...
@@ynotttt Rodman's the ONLY one who said that while the others think he would dominate today because these players are soft and he would just eat them like a Shoney's Buffett! Far higher basketball IQ than anyone now!
Watching Larry Bird since his Senior year in College , I have always Rooted for Magic Johnson & the Lakers but as much as I've not liked the Boston Celtics I've ALWAYS rooted for #33 Larry Bird and his coldest ways as a player Larry Legend is /was second to none period .
I agree 100%. Anybody that says that Larry Bird couldn't play in today's NBA is full of you know what. He would absolutely dominate even more than he did in his career
I met Larry once when I was 10 years old. He was playing a game in a larger city next to mine. We were in the smaller city bordering the one he was going to play in that evening. We were sitting in a McDonalds eating and he walked in alone by himself and sat at the table just across from us by himself (no one else with him). We couldn’t believe how tall he was and also didn’t know who he was. He saw us kids and looked over and said, “Yes I play basketball” and smiled at us. He told us that he liked our little town, and he chose to come here to eat, because in the big city local people and news crews would not leave him alone. That evening is when I saw my first NBA game and saw him play. It was years later that my stepbrother and I said that we should have got an autograph, but at 10 years old that’s not what kids our age even knew about. He was extremely polite and was a very funny guy, we talked, ate together, and when we were done eating, we went our separate ways. I just told my stepbrother that; at the very least we could tell people that we had dinner with Larry Bird.
S'funny! Up to about 2015, most people my age and older emphatically swore MJ was/is the GOAT! ((I'm white - sadly, that matters to a lot of people - and 5 years older than Bird.) Then, it was Kobe, then LeBron and, these days it's Curry. 3 thoughts; 1) We're all prisoners of our era. (And opinions.) 2) Going back to a time when basketball was just becoming legitimized as a true sport, there have been 100s of great athletes in basketball. Heck, it hasn't been that long ago since Jerry West was the flat-out icon of basketball - all 3 leagues (!) - NBA, ABA & "Negro League. Heck, #2, Pistol Pete was drafted out of LSU into the NBA, ABA and Harlem Globetrotters! Finally, (Not my own original thought.), there-is-no-G.O.A.T.! To define the greatest, one must first DEFINE "greatness." MJ may BE the consensus GOAT. But he said, following Bird's retirement, "I'm glad to see him go. He messed up some of my greatest chances to beat the Celtics and go to the Championship tourney!" Fact is, for all his athletic talent, he never beat Bird in the semis! And if you think I'm comparing Bird to MJ
He got his ass whipped three times by Magic Johnson and he was handed a ready made playoff team in Indiana. Not a lot of coaching for that team. If you were to talk to all of these players off camera, they would tell a different story.
@@basher5107 almost all basketball related sites place Bird in rarified air at the expense of his peers. You never hear accounts from Bird about his opponents or who he and the Celtics game planned for. There is no question that Larry Bird was a great player but there were a couple of teammates who were as big a factor in the Celtics success as Bird was. But they are rarely mentioned. And Larry Bird lost to Magic Johnson in College and twice in the pros yet the same amount of notoriety for Johnson and other accomplished players from the era. I doubt those other NBA All Pros were in fear of Bird or each other for that matter, but his fans and people who inflate his status are insulting to his competition. BTW look up Bird’s all time stats in the three most important categories in basketball, scoring, rebounds and assist and you will find that he was middle of the pack and never a League leader in those categories. But yes, he was a great player
@@codyeble0713The word was metaphoric, not literal. You do understand that metaphors and other figures of speech are not intended to be taken literally, don't you? If I were to call you as dumb as a box of rocks, would you think I said you were dead, and had zero brain activity?
I always enjoy Bird stories because of his swagger. My personality is nothing like that so he seems like an alien to me... and it would be crazy but he backed it up.
Larry Bird was incredible person. He was successful af also as a coach. He brought the Indiana Pacers to the NBA finals with aged Reggie Miller against the Shaq and Kobe Lakers. They lost but what was incredible is he was the first coach who used the "Hack a shaq " tactic. He didnt let the Lakers take those wins easy. He tortured Shaq on the free throw line. He won Coach of the Year that year easily and too bad he coached only 2 seasons. Real Shame- I think he would have been one of the most decorated coaches out there if he was given a better team. Larry is one of those human beings that understood basketball like very few human beings ever did.
@@mikemoore5860 and in my 52 years I have never enjoyed watching another player as much as Bird. He wasn't overly fancy and he didn't care about how it looked. Work to get points....that's it.
@@mikesg72 - Yes, but his motto was: As you drive down Life's busy highway, always try to show a little class. What I loved about Bird was the way he did it. He couldn't care less if it was shooting, embarrassing you on Defense, getting a key steal with less than a minute to play, or making a pass for an easy layup that no one in the building expected... except the guy who caught it.
@Joe_J-MT_Boy I couldn't agree more. He doesn't get as much credit because he was not as flashy, and it didn't matter to him what people thought of him. He could PROVE it and didn't have to talk the talk publicly in a grandiose fashion while beating his chest. Just an all around classy and humble guy. My favorite story about Bird was when he came into the NBA and his first conversation was "I will not carry your bags and I will not do your laundry" and he never did.
I was a Pistons fan, and Larry Bird was clutch like no other. Those Celtic teams were Nails tough and smart and talented. Danny Ainge, Robert Parrish, Kevin McHale , Dennis Johnson and of course Larry Bird. People remember greatness even when they were opposing fans. If only the young ones today could have seen him play what a privilege to be alive at that time.
Bird is arguably the best player to play the game. He did everything. Could rebound, shoot the three ball, amazing passer, could hit the fade away and mid range shot and was clutch when the big moment came. Amazing player.
Larry Bird had an incredible court awareness... he knew where everybody was, on both teams, all the time. That awareness allowed him to make some amazing passes, not to mention shots. I loved watching him play!!
Bird playing against rodman in regular season averaged 24.7 points, 8.0 rebounds and 6.9 assists. in playoffs Bird averaged 20.9 points, 9.8 rebounds and 6.2 assists. rodman's stats against Bird regular season 10.2 points, 9.5 rebounds and 1.3 assists, post season 6.0 points, 4.4 rebounds and 0.7 assists guess that says it all. No wonder Rodman's jealous
They should've extended that clip. Rodman said that his rookie year, he'd be all over guarding Bird and Bird would be yelling at his teammates, "Pass me the ball before they put someone on me, I'm wide open".
Rodman was one of the best defenders in the league with the Bulls, but he was schooled by Larry in his Pistons years. I suspect trying to guard Larry made him better in time but what an awful way to learn with Bird just lighting your ass up with shot after shot
@marklittle8805 Rodman was at his very best in his years with the Pistons. He didn't come into the league until he was 25. He was absolute endless energy in those early years. He came to the Bulls in his 10 season at the age of 34. He was still a good rebounder and defender but relied much more on getting under the skin of his opposition. Larry Legend lit up the very best version of "the worm".
He could pass like Magic, shoot like Steph, rebound like Barkeley, and steal like Stockton. And compete ahrder than anyone. that's a tough combination....he also made his teammates know that the harder they worked, the better he would make them look.
@@joemarshall4226 He was a better passer than Magic. Best passer I have ever seen. There are RUclips videos that a small fraction of his passing skills and some will make your Jaws drop. No one else would even attempt them.
Pete and Larry played on the same team when Larry was young,a nd Pete was the first one to admit that Larry was the far better player. @@LoydKline-uw4no
@mattyholcombe9258 great statement 👏 bravo my friend-!! I grew up 2 miles from the garden-!! I was in my teens when Larry was in his prime,great time to be growing up watching him
@@christiancarrazana9534 I'm not even a basketball fan I love boxing and MMA especially and I probably have seen every clip about Larry Bird and honestly and the relationship between him and Magic was a beautiful thing
Bird was a monster a straight killer on the court only opposing player i ever feared as a kid watching hilm kill me rockets in the 80 and 86 NBA finals 😔😖🙄
Thanks for sharing this video. Only thing I want to say is that Dr. J is mistaken about Bird's rookie year. Bird went to a 29 win team and with 1 player change to the roster in ML Carr and a new coach in Bill Fitch, Bird was the main reason Boston won 61 games = a 32 game turnaround and the biggest 1 season turn around in NBA history!!
exactly, in college he was on basically a division 2 team- that stomped on the NCAA for a perfect record his senior year...guy elevated his team like no other, is one reason he is LARRY LEGEND!
@@agulanwo856 That MSU team was loaded. Greg Kelser, Jay Vincent and Ron Charles all saw an NBA roster. ISU actually upset Oklahoma, then Arkansas and then Depaul before losing the final game of the tournament.
@@agulanwo856 No. Brian Gumble is on tape saying what many people thought = "we thought once the NCAA tournament began they would be gone but this team kept on winning". The ISU team had the #1 ranking only because it was the only team with an undefeated record and the polls felt an obligation to give the #1 rank because of that reason. The Missouri Valley Conference at that time was not viewed as a top notch conference like the Big Ten or The Big East ( and understandably so). All you had to do was look at the school size and where the high school stars went to play. The only team ISU was picked to beat was Virginia Tech. All the other teams after that game were expected to beat ISU.
My cousin ( who was more of a younger brother then a cousin, we were inseparable ) grew up watching ball together. Football, basketball, baseball,… And of all the GREAT teams, it was the Celtics that brought us the most joy. I’ll never forget the game against NiQ Wilkins even they went bucket for bucket for what felt like half an hour. It was magical.
The David Robinson conment stuck with me the most when he said he had a heart of a lion. Respect. Thats something you can't teach you either have it or don't.
Larry is my number 1 pick to build an all-world team around. James Worthy said of Bird: "I would rather play against Jordan because when you played Bird, you had to play like a chess player." Worthy and Jordan played together in North Carolina, so he would know best.
Where is this "He wasn't that athletic or fast" coming from? Has anyone seen him play?? They say he was always there, you couldn't make a mistake... that means he was just as athletic and fast as everyone else. And my God, just look at his career!! The man is a legend. He helped save the NBA. He could shoot that ball, and he was a team player. He knew how to be a team player, but he also knew he was a star. He was arrogant. Sure. But he could back it all up. When he's standing telling you what he's gonna do and then proceeds to do it while you just try to keep up... Don't say that's not an athlete. He ran full force every game. Never stopped. He was a power house. He was, in my opinion, the best player that's ever lived. Followed very closely by Jordan and then Magic Johnson. The rest of the list would take serious pondering.
I grew up south of Boston in marshfield where the Celtics had their preseason camp back in the 70's into the 80's, they'd scrimmage at the highschool gym in the evenings, you could go in and watch the scrimmages for free. It was awesome, you could tell that bird in his rookie year was already well ahead of everybody else on the court.
Oh man I agree mostly but there are just too many of Larry's shots that I could say "well maybe this one" . I like the one where they threw the ball in just over half court and Larry caught it in mid air, turned and fired it while never touching the ground for a 3 pointer. Just so many of them are stellar. I have tried that shot behind the backboard and I give up on it. Larry's shots all have such a huge Arch that it is just amazing. Good stuff man. The backboard shot was definitely one of my top 2 or 3 shots Larry made.
It was certainly a great shot, but it goes down as a circus play. But it pales in comparison to "Bird steals the mall, underneath to DJ. One of the great Game winners of all time.
Saw Celtics against the Knicks at Madison Square in the early 80's. There was a breakaway. Bird dribbling up the middle and another Celtics guy trailing up the left side. One Knicks defender backing up in the middle, focusing on Bird. Larry got the Knicks guy to commit to him and just then, Bird threw a perfect, behind the back bounce pass to the guy on the left for an easy layup. Knicks guy was flabbergasted. Doesn't sound like much as I write this, but it was kinda a bang bang play and Birds pass was unbelievable. One bounce, crosscourt - hit the guy in stride. Wow.
The 80s was an amazing time in the NBA with so many great players of that era. Bird and Magic was an ongoing battle that was enjoyed and never will be forgotten by fans of the game. That man from Indians State was always amazing, thank you Larry Legend!
I was a Magic fan, lakers fan and hated the Celtics....but all these years later I watch the videos on Bird....he was incredible. And the Celtics was an incredible team in the 80's.
I saw him play (we’re about the same age! He was basketball ball wizard! He and Magic saved the NBA. The league was in serious danger of going bankrupt before those two came along. I also have to add David Stearn as well. The best pro sport (any sport) commissioner of all time.
Love it ! The GOAT OF ALL TIME ! How I miss watching him and his boys. He had an amazing way to get into the heads of his competitors, that was a part of his game, brilliant. We will never know how many points were missed or never made by his competitors,because he was in their minds. It unquestionably effected their game, brilliant
One of the things i am so happy about growing up when i did was having larry bird as an inspiration and hero loved the Celtics back then and I'm from NY so that's saying something
Wonderful compilation! Mad respect for someone who can lead a team to victory not just by teamwork, but by doing what they say they will do. Leading by example is what sports is all about. Watching Shoresy (and Letterkenny, naturally), I can't help but think that Bird was the inspiration for the character's trash-talking, first to arrive, last to leave personality.
Grew up watching him play and he was and still is one of my favorite players! You couldn’t keep track of him, he was moving down the court and all over the place, making shots that blew your mind!
I truly think Dominque should have been in your Top 5! So many great battles with the Hawks back in the day! Larry realized early on that 'Nique was going to be a big part of the Eastern Conference! But, Larry was def The Legend!
I believe if it hadn't been for that one series Hawks vs Celtics ....if Dominique and the Hawks had pulled off that series, Dominique would have gotten a lot more prowess and fame than what he does now. I Truly believe Dominique deserves a lot more than he got but hey...there were a lot of greats to compete against. Nique had a flashy style like Jordan and Dominique was a very VERY humble guy. Very respectable. You don't hear him curse a lot. Great, great guy.
@@jgfunkDominique is one of my top 5. My dream team would include Dominique and Bird, for SURE. If Nique had been on the Celtics, that would have been impressive. I am from Georgia and I have always said, Dominique could have been on ANY other team and he would have been much better off.
Great video! There is a awesome clip of Jordan reacting to Bird at an all star game 3 point contest. Larry was out just casually shooting with his warmups still on. This was Jordan in his early years. As he is walking toward the court to warm up himself, he sees Larry in warmups knocking in 3s from whereever. Jordan is astonished and exclaims, "He's still got his warmups on. I hate to see it when he takes them off!" As well as the contests against Magic, Kareem and the Lakers, I think the NBA can thank Larry for instilling in Michael that there was a higher level of greatness to achieve. Because Michael being a competitor first, when he saw there was another level to achieve, he wanted that, went for it and achieved it. The NBA became better because of that.
I like what larry said when they told Magic he couldnt play anymore because he tested positive for HIV. Larry said the danger to others is very small. They dont want Magic playing because hes such a great player and they dont want to deal with him anymore. Magic was always one of Larrys best friends to this day even though they were rivals.
The restricted area was instituted after Jordan retired. Then the defensive 3-second a few years after. Took away hand check. Then got rid off traveling. Birds era was the toughest and the most physical and for him and magic to do what they accomplished is crazy.
The only man in history to break his orbital bone on his FACE and after a brief trip to the locker room, come back out and WILLED his to to a win in the playoffs against the Pacers. Smart, tough. smooth and an absolute KILLER!!!
Thanks for this man. I'm an old guy. I remember when the games or tape delayed. When bird and magic hit the league, I didn't know how great they were because I had nothing to compare.
born in 1989 and missed it all, but love to hear my father in law recount all his celtics memories and watching these old clips... the dude was cold as ice could be. larry LEGEND
I'm always glad to hear Larry Bird's peers telling good stories about him. He's called Larry legend for a good reason. Bird was one of the most phenomenal players to ever step on the court period.
Pat Reilly said it best:
if you need a basket to win the game, pick Micheal Jordan
if you need a basket to save your life, pick Larry Bird.
Who in the hell is going to be in a position in which their life is on the line and their fate depends on someone shooting a basketball?
Good luck with that.
@@michaelnicholas7746 that is your reply? Really? Thanks for the comedy
@@michaelnicholas7746
Go eat your hot pockets little man.
Reilly was right
@@michaelnicholas7746snake plissken in escape from LA
Larry wasn't slow, he had an excellent first step - enough to get by the defender.
Triple threat basketball: An inch too close and he just blows by you, an inch too far and he just shoots over anybody, double team him and he finds the open man for an easy layup.
"MJ made you look slow, Larry made you look stupid" - Michael Cooper
he made it look like he wasn't an athlete ! but he was !
He wasnt a guy playing basketball he was a basketball player.
This "he was 'slow" stuff is just garbage. Besides being quick, you will never find any film that shows someone catching him on a break. You also don't average 10 boards a game when you "can't jump". His numbers would have been even better if he had not to play through injuries.
I LOVE the Magic Johnson story when he was hurt. Larry said something along the lines of "It's OK. I'm gonna put on a show for you!"
And I remember when Magic Johnson was like ohh shit this is gonna be a long night. He knew that nobody on that Lakers team could stop him. He went up to Magic Johnson and told him exactly what he was gonna do and Magic told his teammates what Larry was gonna do and Larry still did it and Magic said years later that this guy is the best forward ever to play the game.
@@leo29hornsfanMcHale gave the Lakers more trouble than anyone. Didnt Bird say Cooper was his toughest defender. After Magic hit the hook shot in game 4 87 Finals. Bird said Magic was the best he'd ever seen.
I never get tired of Larry Bird stories. His entire life story is such an inspiration. I think part of why I love it is that I live in Indiana, went to ISU, and live in Terre Haute. Basketball in those years was everything in Indiana from high school on.
I never get tired of his stories either ❤❤❤
@@dioniciotorres4290Me either!! #LarryLegend ☘️
I was born in 79 about 50 miles south of Chicago so of course I was a bulls fan. But when I became aware of Larry I was an instant fan of the way he played. Now as an adult learning how he carried himself, and that he really doesn't give a crap about the color of anyone besides the jersey on their back. The man is a great role model and much like another of my favorites, Doctor J, he's pure class.
Maybe watched Larry play a dozen times and didn't know he came from Indy. Some great Bball players from here where I live now. Thanks much
I used to live right down the road from the Eagle Ranch. I miss it there beautiful area. Never did see Larry though. He was one of only reasons I actually watched Ball.
Larry was athletic in a sneaky way. He was quicker than he looked and he had phenomenal hands. Plus he was probably the smartest player ever to play.
It is the intelligence that does it. He isn't that fast, but he understands the play developing before everyone else. Because of that, it wasn't that he was quick, but that he was just a half step ahead of everyone else.
Here is a way to demostrate that. I drive a Kia, Soul, with 4 tiny hamsters on their little hamster wheels. When at intersections I am familiar with, I am watching the lights on the cross traffic. Due to that, I know in advance when my light will go green and am preparing for it before others. Because of that advanced notice, it is easy for my 4 little hamsters to beat V8s off the line. I don't have the better engine, just an advantage in reaction time. That is what Bird had. Basketball smarts meant he was just playing the game a half second ahead of everyone else. From my experience, that beats the difference in speed every time.
100%. You can't do the things Bird did withough elite athleticism, something that can be measured in many different ways. No, he couldn't run the 40 as fast as most. He couldn't jump as high as most. His dunks weren't going to posterize anyone. But hand-eye coordination, passing and shooting ability, and anticipation are all athletic skills, and Larry had all in spades. Just look at how often he would shoot off balance. That's athleticism.
Coach Bobby Knight said he had the best hand eye coordination of any player he had ever seen before including MJ
@daxypoo This. Timing beats speed and quickness.
Exactly, his athleticism was more kinesthetic than it was gross measurements. He also had an uncanny sense of where everyone on the court was and where they were going to be. Along with his ability to process information so quickly, he seemed to be just exactly in the right place at the right time.
David Robinson is a class act.
We all know Bird was out of this world. I just love how respectful and positive The Admiral is when he talks about Bird.
Yeah, but the player David feared was the big African. Hakeem. He probably still has nightmares about that ass whipping he took the night he won the MVP.
yeah, The Admiral was the truth
LW07....In total agreement w/ you regarding David Robinson..one gentleman said something about Robinson and the truth....maybe not a la Paul Pierce, but I David was a Christian believer...then he KNOWS the One who is the TRUTH. Thank you!
@@thomaswelsh5735 He was really the best face of the NBA... Gentleman, Military Academy Graduate, Champion...will always be a FAN! Didn't know he was a man of faith but I am certainly not surprised!🙏
@@mattblatchley2061 Those yeams with Duncan, Parker, Ginobili and of course the Admiral were a tightly knit group. I have to laugh because they get Robert Horry and he's soso until the game is on the line back to jacking gw shots, gets another ring.
Anyone that's ever actually seen Larry Bird play.... I do not understand how they can say the man was unathletic! That guy was all over the court... he was 2 or 3 steps ahead of everybody else on every play ...give me a break!
Quick not so muck as fast, sooo smart
Yes. Very quick hands and anticipation. Was also always in the best position for rebounding and steals.@macsaints10
I was born in '79, and remember the Bird dominating. Like Magic said, "you can't give him an inch." I've been saying that as a child. As a former New Yorker, I couldn't stand Bird, but I did respect his game.
Like myself and hated Magic but loved his game@@Blksheep45
Yes, he was quick. And when he was younger, he had that third gear. If you watch enough, or were here back then to see him play, you'll know what I mean. He could move fast. He just didn't have to. He was all over the place as it was.
I have to say this is the best, Larry Bird compilation I’ve seen. Respect!
I grew up watching 80’s basketball…but honestly youtube has given me a new appreciation for Larry Bird because of all the interviews and clips out there. Great vid.
Larry is the reason I continued watching basketball. Didn't even know who da hell he was. I guess I got lucky that my dad told me to watch to confirm if he won his bet.
I miss those days and basketball was great! there were many great players in that era. The bird was my favorite love the way he played the game. It seems every game he gave it his all.!
Agree 100% !
OMG I hated Larry and the Celtics back then BUT anyone that says he couldn't play...never saw him play. Dude was unstoppable. Could do everything!! Defense or Offense, he played HARD!!!
As a Knicks fan, I had an intense hatred for the Celtics. But no way can I not give Bird his props. Top 3 imo.
true
I watched the Celts everytime they came on TV and Bird is and always will be my GOAT! Could you imagin Bird in todays rules! HA! He would have 20 points a game just on FT's never mind him concentrating on the 3 more. Plus these guys are soft mentally and he would just have a buffett every night!
I loved watching the Celtics vs. the Bulls years ago. That was real competition.
Not sure how many times I saw teams get a 3 on 1 fast break on him and they would make a pass or two and suddenly he would be going the other way with the ball while 3 guys looked at each other confused. He just understood angles and physics on the court better than everyone else.
I can listen to GP talk about Larry and Stockton all day.. you can hear in his voice the respect, even without words, just his tone of amazement.. plus the way he described them is hilarious.. love GP
Yes! And Gary makes the best point - Bird didn't have to jump high or be super athletic. He could beat you just fine with the skill set he had and his court IQ...plus he could hit the hoop from anywhere he wanted. Anywhere at all.
#LarryLegend ☘️
I love his respect for 2 of my GOATs.. If they were black, the narrative would've been so different
Really nice combination of legends here. I've heard most of these and more but it never gets old. Massive respect from one's peers is the ultimate tribute to a man's game and character.
Kareem said it best. Bird wasn't the fastest or most athletic, but the muscle between his ears was constantly maxed out. Also going back to what Dumars said he was a Savant on the court.
The reason Dr J attacked Larry Bird was Larry kept running down the floor repeating to Dr J the score between the two players. For example 38-6. This meant Bird scored 38 points to DrJ scoring 6 points. Can you imagine that. That is why Dr J strangled Bird in anger.
The reason Dr J attacked Larry Bird was Larry kept running down the floor repeating to Dr J the score between the two players. For example 38-6. This meant Bird scored 38 points to DrJ scoring 6 points. Can you imagine that. That is why Dr J strangled Bird in anger.
The reason Dr J attacked Larry Bird was Larry kept running down the floor repeating to Dr J the score between the two players. For example 38-6. This meant Bird scored 38 points to DrJ scoring 6 points. Can you imagine that. That is why Dr J strangled Bird in anger..
@markminister2599 very old Dr j retirement/ nursing home 🏡 dr.j ,,,,Nikola jokic & LeBron James & dirk nowitzki each would've score 50s points against 1980s larry bird , larry bird would've told coach k.c Jones help, help,, take out the game got a Nikola jokic & LeBron James & dirk nowitzki headache, throw white towel white flag
@@LoydKline-uw4no you are smoking crack. Watch the video guy, listen to LEGENDS talk about Bird. FOH.
I grew up in Massachusetts during the late 70’s and 80’s. Larry dominated the best in the NBA night in and night out.
He’s the GOAT.
Larry Bird was incredible player
🏀🔥🔥
I took my 11-year-old son to Larry Bird's very first basketball camp.
When I first saw Larry I shook his hand and watched my hand disappear into his hand as if it were a major-league baseball glove.
They say he is 6-9? I always thought he was at least a bit closer to being 6-10.
Anyway, we proceed through this [maybe, and very likely] the only basketball camp, LB ever did?
And at this time, maybe, 1984, did we have any idea how super-great this man already was in the NBA ?
Not a clue but I tell you now,, we both know it now and we feel so blessed to have spent 2 or 3 weeks with LB at his original [gift] basketball ball camp.
There is a shot in this compilation where he is slapping hands with McHale and KM is a very rangy 6'10" and you can tell Larry is a little shorter, but it doesn't even look like a full inch. I think those guys either fudged a little on their heights or they were just built like they were taller...long arms and wide shoulders.
Wow man. What an honor that must be to look back on. Just WOW. I would absolutely LOVE to see Larry Bird in person and shake his hand. I have NEVER been all woozy over a celebrity ...not a single one... but Larry Bird is the only Celebrity that I would probably stumble over myself if I got to meet him. Just an amazing human being all the way through and through. I'm envious.
Larry Bird was the Greatest forward to ever play . I grew up watching him and saw him live at Boston he scored 48 pts . He was the most electrifying player ever . He played with all heart and was smart and could shoot a shot anywhere and hit it .
…The speed, the size, the athleticism, the agility, the jumping ability…..and they’re all greyhounds running the court. Larry Bird wouldn’t get a shot off. There’s no way he could guard anyone. He’d then have be taken out in 2 minutes for a breather. He’d be gassed. Dennis Rodman said…..”If Larry Bird were playing today he’d be riding the bench in Europe”….That’s simply the evolution of the game. Larry wouldn’t be a college star today. This isn’t the NBA where the centers lope back into your tv picture 4 seconds after everyone is down court.
@@ynotttt All that was said about LB when he came into the NBA. They were wrong then and you are wrong now. LB would have the soft dudes playing today crying after the first quarter...
@@ynotttt Rodman's the ONLY one who said that while the others think he would dominate today because these players are soft and he would just eat them like a Shoney's Buffett! Far higher basketball IQ than anyone now!
Way better than Karl Malone.
@@ynotttt help is coming..
Watching Larry Bird since his Senior year in College , I have always Rooted for Magic Johnson & the Lakers but as much as I've not liked the Boston Celtics I've ALWAYS rooted for #33 Larry Bird and his coldest ways as a player Larry Legend is /was second to none period .
I feel exact the same way. I grew up in Michigan and saw Magic in high school on TV. That finals in 1979 was the best.
80's laker fan too ....hilarious...just like the players....we feared Bird!!
Larry Legend..A brain (maybe 2), left hand, rage and passion.... My GOAT NBA for ever ❤🥳
Heart of a lion!
My GOAT also.
He was so fun to watch. Especially when the game was real basketball , a lot of great players and way less cry babies
"Load maintainence"
Yeap!! When Basketball was Basketball!!
Amen to that
Amen to that!
Absolutely
Beautifully done. I was an avid Celtics fan my whole life and Larry Bird was the best all around basketball player I ever saw.
All of the stories were amazing, but the McCale one was hilarious! "Told you so!" .... goes and gets a beer.
"He does it all the time" 😂😂😂
If that clip was longer, you would see him point at the bench after he hit the shot.
Rodman said Bird couldn't play in today's NBA lol.a prime Bird would dominate in today's NBA
He also said Larry Bird wouldn't be considered a great player if he were black and that we only consider him one of the greatest because he's white
Bird would want to make em quit. Hell, back in Bird's day it was physical basketball, real basketball, not like the powder puff game they play today.
I agree 100%. Anybody that says that Larry Bird couldn't play in today's NBA is full of you know what. He would absolutely dominate even more than he did in his career
Too many babies today, they would cry foul on every play!! Today's game is not the fun it was back then, when no one got insulted.
i mean yes and no, he would just because of who he is, but the gamer has changed drastically since then.
I met Larry once when I was 10 years old. He was playing a game in a larger city next to mine. We were in the smaller city bordering the one he was going to play in that evening. We were sitting in a McDonalds eating and he walked in alone by himself and sat at the table just across from us by himself (no one else with him). We couldn’t believe how tall he was and also didn’t know who he was. He saw us kids and looked over and said, “Yes I play basketball” and smiled at us. He told us that he liked our little town, and he chose to come here to eat, because in the big city local people and news crews would not leave him alone. That evening is when I saw my first NBA game and saw him play. It was years later that my stepbrother and I said that we should have got an autograph, but at 10 years old that’s not what kids our age even knew about. He was extremely polite and was a very funny guy, we talked, ate together, and when we were done eating, we went our separate ways. I just told my stepbrother that; at the very least we could tell people that we had dinner with Larry Bird.
Let’s not forget Bird’s Hollywood looks ! 🤮
S'funny! Up to about 2015, most people my age and older emphatically swore MJ was/is the GOAT! ((I'm white - sadly, that matters to a lot of people - and 5 years older than Bird.) Then, it was Kobe, then LeBron and, these days it's Curry.
3 thoughts; 1) We're all prisoners of our era. (And opinions.) 2) Going back to a time when basketball was just becoming legitimized as a true sport, there have been 100s of great athletes in basketball. Heck, it hasn't been that long ago since Jerry West was the flat-out icon of basketball - all 3 leagues (!) - NBA, ABA & "Negro League.
Heck, #2, Pistol Pete was drafted out of LSU into the NBA, ABA and Harlem Globetrotters!
Finally, (Not my own original thought.), there-is-no-G.O.A.T.!
To define the greatest, one must first DEFINE "greatness."
MJ may BE the consensus GOAT. But he said, following Bird's retirement, "I'm glad to see him go. He messed up some of my greatest chances to beat the Celtics and go to the Championship tourney!"
Fact is, for all his athletic talent, he never beat Bird in the semis! And if you think I'm comparing Bird to MJ
i doubt you're handsome 😂😂
He was in constant motion. he didn't low down during a game, but hi defender did.
@@Robert-ko8fi wonderful memory!
Larry wasn’t just a great player,he was a great coach and a great GM,one of the best to ever do it
He got his ass whipped three times by Magic Johnson and he was handed a ready made playoff team in Indiana.
Not a lot of coaching for that team.
If you were to talk to all of these players off camera, they would tell a different story.
@@michaelnicholas7746 I’m sorry what are you inferring?
@@basher5107 almost all basketball related sites place Bird in rarified air at the expense of his peers.
You never hear accounts from Bird about his opponents or who he and the Celtics game planned for.
There is no question that Larry Bird was a great player but there were a couple of teammates who were as big a factor in the Celtics success as Bird was.
But they are rarely mentioned.
And Larry Bird lost to Magic Johnson in College and twice in the pros yet the same amount of notoriety for Johnson and other accomplished players from the era.
I doubt those other NBA All Pros were in fear of Bird or each other for that matter, but his fans and people who inflate his status are insulting to his competition.
BTW look up Bird’s all time stats in the three most important categories in basketball, scoring, rebounds and assist and you will find that he was middle of the pack and never a League leader in those categories.
But yes, he was a great player
@@michaelnicholas7746su k it
@@michaelnicholas7746lmao. You sound like a fool. Don't hate. It looks like shit
He's one of the few players that I wish I could watch play forever. The stories never get old.
People are also saying that about Luka....And hes White. So is Jokic.
As others have said, Larry's best muscle was the one between his ears. Jordan was flashy and made you look slow, but Larry made you look stupid.
The brain is an organ, not a muscle..
@@codyeble0713Tell that to Kareem's face. Lol.
@@libertypastor1307 Exactly! 😂😂😂
@@codyeble0713 🤦
@@codyeble0713The word was metaphoric, not literal. You do understand that metaphors and other figures of speech are not intended to be taken literally, don't you? If I were to call you as dumb as a box of rocks, would you think I said you were dead, and had zero brain activity?
I always enjoy Bird stories because of his swagger. My personality is nothing like that so he seems like an alien to me... and it would be crazy but he backed it up.
It's his Indian blood (from both parents)
Everything that Bird did in basketball proved that he was an outstanding athlete. He had more skills than 90% of all other players.
Larry Bird was incredible person. He was successful af also as a coach. He brought the Indiana Pacers to the NBA finals with aged Reggie Miller against the Shaq and Kobe Lakers. They lost but what was incredible is he was the first coach who used the "Hack a shaq " tactic. He didnt let the Lakers take those wins easy. He tortured Shaq on the free throw line. He won Coach of the Year that year easily and too bad he coached only 2 seasons.
Real Shame- I think he would have been one of the most decorated coaches out there if he was given a better team.
Larry is one of those human beings that understood basketball like very few human beings ever did.
Correct. Then he went on to win General Manager of the year after coaching.
Sh*** , Bird could have been a phenomenal 6Th man if he chose to be. AND GOT A FEW MORE RINGS.!!
@@flintfleming3935
Bird only wanted to play for the Celtics.
He couldn’t go to another team and play.
Hack a Shaq was used by Don Nelson way before Bird used it... It was originally created for Rodman
The Goat. The best All Around player of all time. No one in my 53 years watching the NBA played harder than Larry Bird.
@@mikemoore5860 agreed! He literally worked!
@@mikemoore5860 and in my 52 years I have never enjoyed watching another player as much as Bird. He wasn't overly fancy and he didn't care about how it looked. Work to get points....that's it.
@@mikesg72 - Yes, but his motto was: As you drive down Life's busy highway, always try to show a little class. What I loved about Bird was the way he did it. He couldn't care less if it was shooting, embarrassing you on Defense, getting a key steal with less than a minute to play, or making a pass for an easy layup that no one in the building expected... except the guy who caught it.
@Joe_J-MT_Boy I couldn't agree more. He doesn't get as much credit because he was not as flashy, and it didn't matter to him what people thought of him. He could PROVE it and didn't have to talk the talk publicly in a grandiose fashion while beating his chest. Just an all around classy and humble guy. My favorite story about Bird was when he came into the NBA and his first conversation was "I will not carry your bags and I will not do your laundry" and he never did.
Catlin Clark reminds me of Larry.
I was a Pistons fan, and Larry Bird was clutch like no other. Those Celtic teams were Nails tough and smart and talented. Danny Ainge, Robert Parrish, Kevin McHale , Dennis Johnson and of course Larry Bird. People remember greatness even when they were opposing fans. If only the young ones today could have seen him play what a privilege to be alive at that time.
@@michaelroberts6450 Piston - Celtic games were like the NFC North in those days
Funny that you list them out - I do the same. That was the team to watch for pure complete entertainment and every guy had their spot
Bird is arguably the best player to play the game. He did everything. Could rebound, shoot the three ball, amazing passer, could hit the fade away and mid range shot and was clutch when the big moment came. Amazing player.
I would have Bird on my starting 5 any day of the week.
First one I always pick. Mental toughness and clutch. The other 4 I fit around that.
@@fredjones9750 Naw my first pick is always Bill Russell. Bird pretty soon after that tho.
@@davidcorriveau8615 can't argue with that either.
If lebron didnt come along hed still be everyones starting SF
@@brians7901 LeFlop is mentally weak.
Larry Bird had an incredible court awareness... he knew where everybody was, on both teams, all the time. That awareness allowed him to make some amazing passes, not to mention shots.
I loved watching him play!!
Was at the 1979 NCAA final four, sat center court, 2nd row... watching Bird and Magic.
Love the directness and honesty of all those you interviewed! Larry did play using his brain!❤
Larry's skill was his most overlooked attribute.
Bird playing against rodman in regular season averaged 24.7 points, 8.0 rebounds and 6.9 assists. in playoffs Bird averaged 20.9 points, 9.8 rebounds and 6.2 assists. rodman's stats against Bird regular season 10.2 points, 9.5 rebounds and 1.3 assists, post season 6.0 points, 4.4 rebounds and 0.7 assists guess that says it all. No wonder Rodman's jealous
They should've extended that clip. Rodman said that his rookie year, he'd be all over guarding Bird and Bird would be yelling at his teammates, "Pass me the ball before they put someone on me, I'm wide open".
Rodman was one of the best defenders in the league with the Bulls, but he was schooled by Larry in his Pistons years. I suspect trying to guard Larry made him better in time but what an awful way to learn with Bird just lighting your ass up with shot after shot
@@marklittle8805 not just lighting him up but doing it while pretending Rodman wasn't even there... that's 🥶
Rodman did everything to draw attention to himself but he wasn't close to being as good as the birdman.
@marklittle8805
Rodman was at his very best in his years with the Pistons. He didn't come into the league until he was 25. He was absolute endless energy in those early years.
He came to the Bulls in his 10 season at the age of 34. He was still a good rebounder and defender but relied much more on getting under the skin of his opposition.
Larry Legend lit up the very best version of "the worm".
It ain’t trash talking if you can back it up. Bird backed it up EVERY TIME.
Birds passing Skills alone were Amazing by any standard and that was only One aspect of his Multi divisional Arsenal.
He could pass like Magic, shoot like Steph, rebound like Barkeley, and steal like Stockton. And compete ahrder than anyone. that's a tough combination....he also made his teammates know that the harder they worked, the better he would make them look.
@@joemarshall4226 He was a better passer than Magic. Best passer I have ever seen. There are RUclips videos that a small fraction of his passing skills and some will make your Jaws drop. No one else would even attempt them.
Pete maravich would've laugh at larry bird passing skill , Pete maravich would've given larry bird passing clinic
@twinwankel Pete maravich would've laugh at larry bird passing skill, Pete maravich would've given larry bird passing clinic
Pete and Larry played on the same team when Larry was young,a nd Pete was the first one to admit that Larry was the far better player. @@LoydKline-uw4no
If Bird's not on your Mt. Rushmore you don't know basketball
@@mattyholcombe9258 Correct!!!!!
@mattyholcombe9258 great statement 👏 bravo my friend-!! I grew up 2 miles from the garden-!! I was in my teens when Larry was in his prime,great time to be growing up watching him
Top 5 player alltime
Top 3/5 all. Time hands down. Wayy better than lechump.
Bird and Jordan and Kobe and Shaq..... All four of these guys could be called number one....
He's my hero. The best that's ever ever been.
So was Rocky Marciano.
YounGala! Been awhile since you showed up in my feed! Thx for keeping the flame of Larry love alive! ❤
He wasn't referred to as "Larry Legend" for nothing.
Oh my God I still think the funniest story about Larry Bird is when he says that they are being disrespectful by putting a white guy on him😅😅😅😅
@@patriciadavis1393 💯
@@christiancarrazana9534 I'm not even a basketball fan I love boxing and MMA especially and I probably have seen every clip about Larry Bird and honestly and the relationship between him and Magic was a beautiful thing
That happened more than once, couple at least. Isaiah and Barkley both tell that story
Bird was a monster a straight killer on the court only opposing player i ever feared as a kid watching hilm kill me rockets in the 80 and 86 NBA finals 😔😖🙄
Thanks for sharing this video. Only thing I want to say is that Dr. J is mistaken about Bird's rookie year. Bird went to a 29 win team and with 1 player change to the roster in ML Carr and a new coach in Bill Fitch, Bird was the main reason Boston won 61 games = a 32 game turnaround and the biggest 1 season turn around in NBA history!!
exactly, in college he was on basically a division 2 team- that stomped on the NCAA for a perfect record his senior year...guy elevated his team like no other, is one reason he is LARRY LEGEND!
When Larry Legend didn’t play well in the NCAA championship game, Indiana State lost to Magic’s Spartans (?).
@@agulanwo856 That MSU team was loaded. Greg Kelser, Jay Vincent and Ron Charles all saw an NBA roster. ISU actually upset Oklahoma, then Arkansas and then Depaul before losing the final game of the tournament.
@@mrho4speed
So Bird's undefeated Indiana State team was not projected favorites in the tournament?
@@agulanwo856 No. Brian Gumble is on tape saying what many people thought = "we thought once the NCAA tournament began they would be gone but this team kept on winning". The ISU team had the #1 ranking only because it was the only team with an undefeated record and the polls felt an obligation to give the #1 rank because of that reason. The Missouri Valley Conference at that time was not viewed as a top notch conference like the Big Ten or The Big East ( and understandably so). All you had to do was look at the school size and where the high school stars went to play. The only team ISU was picked to beat was Virginia Tech. All the other teams after that game were expected to beat ISU.
My cousin ( who was more of a younger brother then a cousin, we were inseparable ) grew up watching ball together. Football, basketball, baseball,… And of all the GREAT teams, it was the Celtics that brought us the most joy. I’ll never forget the game against NiQ Wilkins even they went bucket for bucket for what felt like half an hour. It was magical.
The David Robinson conment stuck with me the most when he said he had a heart of a lion. Respect. Thats something you can't teach you either have it or don't.
The "three pointer...from right over here" story is my favorite 😮
Love Dumars. Great two-way player. If Dumars says you are a savant, well, I suspect you are one.
I have always loved Larry's play, and he will always be my favorite player.
Larry is my number 1 pick to build an all-world team around. James Worthy said of Bird: "I would rather play against Jordan because when you played Bird, you had to play like a chess player." Worthy and Jordan played together in North Carolina, so he would know best.
Where is this "He wasn't that athletic or fast" coming from? Has anyone seen him play?? They say he was always there, you couldn't make a mistake... that means he was just as athletic and fast as everyone else. And my God, just look at his career!! The man is a legend. He helped save the NBA. He could shoot that ball, and he was a team player. He knew how to be a team player, but he also knew he was a star. He was arrogant. Sure. But he could back it all up. When he's standing telling you what he's gonna do and then proceeds to do it while you just try to keep up... Don't say that's not an athlete. He ran full force every game. Never stopped. He was a power house. He was, in my opinion, the best player that's ever lived. Followed very closely by Jordan and then Magic Johnson. The rest of the list would take serious pondering.
He wasnt faster but he knew where to go and played economically
Imagine if he played his career healthy
He's not athletic and that's okay 👌
“I want to compete against that everyday” - Respect. Iron sharpens iron.
I grew up south of Boston in marshfield where the Celtics had their preseason camp back in the 70's into the 80's, they'd scrimmage at the highschool gym in the evenings, you could go in and watch the scrimmages for free. It was awesome, you could tell that bird in his rookie year was already well ahead of everybody else on the court.
Larry Legend is a brother like a 100%. Hey YG once again nailed it!
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Dont insult Larry
It's obvious that his teammates practiced being ready for his feeds. And that, in and of itself is quite remarkable.
Love your narration and presentation, YounGala. Roll 'em!
Man this segment of the greatest in Bball is one heck of a way to honor a legend in the game Larry Bird. What an honor! Thanks for the memories!!!!
The shot from behind the back board is the best shot in NBA history
That was an absolute beauty. It helps he's left handed on that play
Oh man I agree mostly but there are just too many of Larry's shots that I could say "well maybe this one" . I like the one where they threw the ball in just over half court and Larry caught it in mid air, turned and fired it while never touching the ground for a 3 pointer. Just so many of them are stellar. I have tried that shot behind the backboard and I give up on it. Larry's shots all have such a huge Arch that it is just amazing. Good stuff man. The backboard shot was definitely one of my top 2 or 3 shots Larry made.
Except those don’t count
@@johnmurphy469 huh?
It was certainly a great shot, but it goes down as a circus play. But it pales in comparison to "Bird steals the mall, underneath to DJ. One of the great Game winners of all time.
This was awesome.. thank you
Saw Celtics against the Knicks at Madison Square in the early 80's. There was a breakaway. Bird dribbling up the middle and another Celtics guy trailing up the left side. One Knicks defender backing up in the middle, focusing on Bird. Larry got the Knicks guy to commit to him and just then, Bird threw a perfect, behind the back bounce pass to the guy on the left for an easy layup. Knicks guy was flabbergasted. Doesn't sound like much as I write this, but it was kinda a bang bang play and Birds pass was unbelievable. One bounce, crosscourt - hit the guy in stride. Wow.
I agree 100% . His passing was phenomenal.
I never get tired of hearing Larry B. stories.
GOAT from many great ballers!
Loved it! What a great bunch of people!
Happy Days!
Don Hansen
The 80s was an amazing time in the NBA with so many great players of that era. Bird and Magic was an ongoing battle that was enjoyed and never will be forgotten by fans of the game. That man from Indians State was always amazing, thank you Larry Legend!
I was a Magic fan, lakers fan and hated the Celtics....but all these years later I watch the videos on Bird....he was incredible. And the Celtics was an incredible team in the 80's.
Even as a college player he was a joy to watch. Seeing Bird and Magic Johnson duel for the National Championship in '79 was unforgettable.
I saw him play (we’re about the same age! He was basketball ball wizard! He and Magic saved the NBA. The league was in serious danger of going bankrupt before those two came along. I also have to add David Stearn as well. The best pro sport (any sport) commissioner of all time.
Stern, great one too!!
Love it ! The GOAT OF ALL TIME ! How I miss watching him and his boys. He had an amazing way to get into the heads of his competitors, that was a part of his game, brilliant. We will never know how many points were missed or never made by his competitors,because he was in their minds. It unquestionably effected their game, brilliant
Love listening to GP talking about Larry
Never get tired of reliving those Larry Legend moments. Legend!!!
Shot from behind the backboard. Haven't seen before or since.A magician.
I recently watched a documentry on the Iceman George Gervin & he made one in one of the clips , but l thought Bird was the only one to do that also .
Hey man thanks for this video! I grew up a Celtics fan watching Bird from grade school. Listening to legends respect Bird made my evening!
One of the things i am so happy about growing up when i did was having larry bird as an inspiration and hero loved the Celtics back then and I'm from NY so that's saying something
Wonderful compilation! Mad respect for someone who can lead a team to victory not just by teamwork, but by doing what they say they will do. Leading by example is what sports is all about.
Watching Shoresy (and Letterkenny, naturally), I can't help but think that Bird was the inspiration for the character's trash-talking, first to arrive, last to leave personality.
Really feel the respect here, great edits too!
Grew up watching him play and he was and still is one of my favorite players! You couldn’t keep track of him, he was moving down the court and all over the place, making shots that blew your mind!
I truly think Dominque should have been in your Top 5! So many great battles with the Hawks back in the day! Larry realized early on that 'Nique was going to be a big part of the Eastern Conference! But, Larry was def The Legend!
I've never seen anyone dunk like that. It's like he was mad at the goal.
I'm a Celtics fan through and through, but loved watching Dominique Wilkins.. He was so ridiculously good.
I believe if it hadn't been for that one series Hawks vs Celtics ....if Dominique and the Hawks had pulled off that series, Dominique would have gotten a lot more prowess and fame than what he does now. I Truly believe Dominique deserves a lot more than he got but hey...there were a lot of greats to compete against. Nique had a flashy style like Jordan and Dominique was a very VERY humble guy. Very respectable. You don't hear him curse a lot. Great, great guy.
@@jgfunkDominique is one of my top 5. My dream team would include Dominique and Bird, for SURE. If Nique had been on the Celtics, that would have been impressive. I am from Georgia and I have always said, Dominique could have been on ANY other team and he would have been much better off.
Great video compilation. Props to channel editor/Conductor narrator etc
Bird was incredible. Damn I miss the 80s NBA era.
Great video! There is a awesome clip of Jordan reacting to Bird at an all star game 3 point contest. Larry was out just casually shooting with his warmups still on. This was Jordan in his early years. As he is walking toward the court to warm up himself, he sees Larry in warmups knocking in 3s from whereever. Jordan is astonished and exclaims, "He's still got his warmups on. I hate to see it when he takes them off!"
As well as the contests against Magic, Kareem and the Lakers, I think the NBA can thank Larry for instilling in Michael that there was a higher level of greatness to achieve. Because Michael being a competitor first, when he saw there was another level to achieve, he wanted that, went for it and achieved it. The NBA became better because of that.
I like what larry said when they told Magic he couldnt play anymore because he tested positive for HIV. Larry said the danger to others is very small. They dont want Magic playing because hes such a great player and they dont want to deal with him anymore. Magic was always one of Larrys best friends to this day even though they were rivals.
Brilliant piece! I loved the way it was organized. Congratulations!
As a Lakers fan during the 80s, Larry was the only player I hated to see against the Lakers.
The restricted area was instituted after Jordan retired. Then the defensive 3-second a few years after. Took away hand check. Then got rid off traveling. Birds era was the toughest and the most physical and for him and magic to do what they accomplished is crazy.
Thanks for that one. Dude was fun to watch.
If I were an NBA GM and there was a draft today...Larry would would be be my #1 pick without a doubt.
Mine too. Every. Single. Time.
Oh, God, that was great! Thanks for putting that together. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Cheers!
Goat.
Great job on this. Such a great time in the NBA
The only man in history to break his orbital bone on his FACE and after a brief trip to the locker room, come back out and WILLED his to to a win in the playoffs against the Pacers. Smart, tough. smooth and an absolute KILLER!!!
Thanks for this man. I'm an old guy. I remember when the games or tape delayed. When bird and magic hit the league, I didn't know how great they were because I had nothing to compare.
born in 1989 and missed it all, but love to hear my father in law recount all his celtics memories and watching these old clips... the dude was cold as ice could be. larry LEGEND
I'm always glad to hear Larry Bird's peers telling good stories about him. He's called Larry legend for a good reason. Bird was one of the most phenomenal players to ever step on the court period.
'89-'90 larry was coming off a season long injury so far from his peak from '83-'88, admiral got his memories mixed up
Just found your channel, great video!! I’m for sure staying up past bedtime to check out more!!
It does not matter what anyone says negative about bird...if you saw him play, you damn well knew you were watching one the very best!