"If I needed a shot to win the game, I'd gave the ball to Michael Jordan. If I needed a shot, to save my life - I'd gave the ball to Larry Bird" - Pat Riley
@@capitanfuturo594 Let me know when Bird leads 3 generations of Celtics to the NBA finals. Only one player has led 3 generations of his team to the NBA Finals, and his name is Magic Johnson. Who beat Larry Bird, THRICE.
@@TheLAKERSareGodsTeam Based on your convoluted logic, Eli Manning was better than Tom Brady. After all, they went head-to-head in two Super Bowls and Eli won both. The only part of Magic's game that was even remotely close to Bird's was his passing.
@@TheLAKERSareGodsTeam It is not so straight forward. There some evidence to consider here. I'm sorry to post so much here. But ... Overall Yes, Magic had a better career, which is saying something! He did not wear out as fast as Bird. However, in their first 9 years in the league, 1980-1988 seasons, before Bird's double heel surgery in late 1988: 1. Larry won 3 MVPs to Magic's 1. (Would Magic win an MVP in 1989 anyhow even if Bird was healthy? I'd say yes). 2. Bird ranked higher in MVP voting than Magic in the 8 out of the 9 years. That is something to consider. Bird's lowest MVP rank was 4th, in his rookie year, and Magic did not even figure in the list of 9 players for MVP award. Kareem won it (Kareem was the MVP and Magic joined Kareem's team that also included Jamal Wilkes! In 1985 finals Kareem was the MVP. This wasn't quite like the "Batman" Shaq with "Robin" Kobe, but still Magic had an all-time great playing at a very high level during his first 4-5 years in the league). 1981 Bird was 2nd in MVP votes, Magic was 11th, finishing behind Kareem and Jamal Wilkes - his two teammates (so two other Lakers ranked higher in MVP votes that year than Magic. At the very least it tells you the talent they had). 1982 Bird was 2nd in MVP voting, Magic was 8th. 1983 Bird 2nd, Magic 3rd. 1984 Bird MVP, Magic 3rd, Kareem 4th. 1985 Bird MVP, Magic 2nd, Kareem 4th. 1986 Bird MVP, Magic 3rd, Kareem 5th. 1987 Magic MVP, Bird 3rd, McHale 4th. 1988 Jordan MVP, Bird 2nd, Magic 3rd. All NBA teams 1980-88: Bird 1st All NBA every year. Magic: didn't make any NBA team in 1980 or 1981. In 1982 he made the 2nd team. Then 1983-1988 he made 1st team. Early on it was Kareem that was the premier Laker: All NBA 1st and All Defensive 1st: 1980 and 81. Kareem was All NBA 1st as late as 1984 and 1986. All NBA Defensive 2nd in 1984. That's a great teammate. All Defensive Teams: Bird made 2nd All Defensive team 3 times. Magic never made any defensive teams in his career. (Which is surprising, I admit, because he DID lead the NBA in steals twice). Moreover, Magic played against smaller guards and didn't mix it up inside as much, he wasn't banging and boxing out under the basket as much as Bird. You can watch NBA games and see this. Bird endured more wear and tear, made more hustle plays. So Bird in the first 9 years (before the double heel surgery), ranked higher than Magic most of the time. 3. Bird's 1980 Celtics set a record for most improved in number of wins from previous season and this team didn't get any great players between 1979 and 1980 except one guy - Larry Bird. Meanwhile Magic joined the Lakers with the league MVP Kareem and also Jamal Wilkes. 4. After Bird returned from surgery (1989-90), and then his last two years with hurt back, Magic was better. Yes, if we look at the entire career, Magic had a better one. But in the 1980s Bird ranked higher most of the time (MVP votes, All NBA selections). Bird's career was cut short by double heel surgery and bad back, and beer drinking. Magic would have played another 5 years if not for HIV from sleeping around. 5. Bird was 6-0 vs Jordan in playoffs. Magic was 1-4. Is that a fair comparison? Obviously not, because we have to look at the supporting cast.
Yeah, it may have been cold but the dude had ice water in his veins so of course the finger was gonna be cold. Not only was it cold but it was beautiful to see, especially if you're a Boston Celtics fan, in particular a Boston Celtics fan who grew up watching Larry Bird. By the way, you get a "thumb's up" for your comment. I really like what you said and how you said it. That's why I'm giving you that "thumb's up.
St4r P He’d also score 40 a game in the modern NBA, he’s Larry Legend and those players you mentioned are straight up lights out shooters, but they’re nowhere near the all around player Larry Bird was, plus he was 6’9”. Still never lost a 3 point contest in his era, admirable for sure.
Over a career? He's played 9 seasons. Bird played 14? And Curry plays in the easy hands-off NBA. He'd get bitch-slapped and cry to his mommy back in the 80-90's! Guaranteed Jordan and Bird would make Curry wet his shorts right on the floor. NO BALLS in the NBA today. NONE.
The Long Distance Shootout (3-point Contest) was 1st introduced in 1986. Bird won 1986-88 (three consecutive years). League MVP 1984-86 (also, three consecutive years)... LJB is not only awesome... He's truly 'legendary'.
Dark Matter You know why? Because Mr. Bird was a very humble person when it came to giving credit to others. Just look up when Magic Johnson was inducted in to the Hall of Fame. Bird did not always like talking about himself! Go back to the 80s and if LJ was playing, bird would school him just like he did with all the other player GREATER then LJ will ever be jus look what LB did to MJ.
@Dave Wesley I agree, I think Larry bird was a little better than LeBron James, there both great tho, the goat would be Michael Jordan, I think Larry bird is the second best ever
The thing to remember about Bird is that he's also 6'9". That's unbelievable for a shooter like that. Before his back injury he was unworldly - about a 26/10/7 player - on a team where he he shared the ball a lot more. His USG% is 5 points lower than Lebron's career average. He also played in an era that did not stress the 3 point ball so he averaged only 1.8 3 pointers per game for his career. Now good shooters take 6 or more per game and there's little doubt that his ppg would be up another 1.5+ in today's world. The guy would be the ultimate stretch 4 in today's game and given the hands-off nature of the rules he'd be virtually unstoppable. We're talking 30+ ppg to go with 8 or 9 rebounds. Truly a remarkable player and along with Magic simply guys that have no comparisons in history, modern or otherwise.
Malachi, not exactly. Bird somewhat infamously injured his back shoveling rock for his mother's driveway back in 1985 after winning his 2nd MVP award. The latter half of his career was played in severe pain and he has said more than once that he sort of wishes he retired after the 1986 season.
@@waltblackadar4690 remember they rode commercial and sometimes coach. Flight delays, odd times, no leg room. That'll take its toll. Plus they didn't purposefully sit out games and there was way more physical contact.
6 років тому+4
Good points. In 86/87 Bird averaged 28 points a game, followed by Kevin McHale at 26 a game, then Robert Parish with 17.5 a game. Bird is 6-9, McHale 6-10 and Parish 7-0. That's a three headed monster if I've ever seen one.
Yes, he is the best all-around player. If he wanted to rack up the points, he could have, but he made the team better with his passing, rebounding, and defense...But passing on to his players was the key...
Larry Bird was the most confident player I have ever seen. He did not fear anyone, He had ice in his veins and other players did fear him. The only other player that rivals his confidence and intensity is Jordan. The two most iconic names in basketball history is Bird and Jordan.
This guy was deadly ! just imagine if he would have actually chosen to take more threes throughout his career. The game was just so different back then but if larry bird played in this era with the high volume of three point attempts it would be interesting to see how many points he would average just off three point makes alone
And if the three point rule was in effect for Pistol Pete his avg scoring would have been much higher. One game for ex they added the three point line using high tech and the his points were in the 70’s.
@@jjs777fzr pistol Pete wasn't that good of a player, he isn't even a top 50 player of all time, modern players would destroy pistol Pete, especially the 80s and 90s era which were the strongest era's ever by far
@@jakedooley5300 That's faulty logic. If Pistol grew up today he would be moving like today's players and more. He was one of the game's innovators and his ballhandling was ahead of its time -- it's actually a precursor to how modern players dribble if you look at it. before him players dribbled a certain way. Of course if he was plucked out of the late 60s and 70s he wouldn't be as impressive but that's not logical. Without his vision and how he paved the way for modern players, moves and the dribbling style of today wouldn't be the same. He would be Steph-like today. Not saying he'll be Steph but the accuracy and ball-handling is similar. A scoring point guard with high accuracy and skill.
I been a Los Angeles Lakers fan since 1980. Even though he is an Arch rival. The man was amazing. A mirror image of magic Johnson of each coast. I miss those days of basketball. It different now.
@@TheSilverfox1234 Yeah, that’s right: he at least had the brains to be born at a time that allows him to play in what is probably the NBA’s weakest era. That’s some big brain action right there.
Rick Hoffman Me too!! Heart Soul & Class!!! Clutch player!!! Saw him so many times make people pay for not paying attention!! "Bird steals the ball" all-time favorite!!!
People want to talk about Steph Curry as the greatest shooter I would beg to differ. Larry Bird was always on the money and he proved it time and time again.
12:20 Notice how quickly he threw up the first two shots of the last rack and then slowed down on the last three. It's as if he missed on purpose to make the ending more dramatic.
jp3813 or maybe he had time left and he needed to take his time while he shot ur so dumb man no one would do that for the win if u have time left u take it slowly and steady to secure the win man ur dumb
Yeah, as a longtime Hawks fan, I know all too well about him hitting ridiculous left-handed shots in a playoff game; a Game 7 no less. I'm stopping right here to keep from banging my head against a desk...
He enjoys competition so, he handicapped himself with a warm up jacket to level the playing field. When you're a master at your craft, you tend to think of ideas that will entertain yourself. It's makes it fun when your lacking motivation, he always needs a challenge like, when he played an entire game scoring with his left hand. Why, because he could...
The NBA of the 80s was littered with plumbers and car salesmen. How do you think Jordan was able to physically dominate and put up such insane numbers so easily?
Jan Hammer composer and pioneer of the minimoog synthesizer and one of the top fusion keyboard players from the 70s. Mahavishnu Orchestra one of the more notable groups he was affiliated with. Known for his sound as heard here too.
Bird really wasn't a great shooter. But he would got hot for a stretch which would bury you. The one thing he had shooting wise the he needed it, it always seemed to go in. He was money. 36% from 3? Not that good really. But when he made one it would quickly become 6 or 7 in a row. If I could take any rookie starting a team it would be him. His teams won out of the box. MJ spend 8 years figuring out there were 4 other guys on the court that were on his side. Bird knew that day 1. Bird made players better around him. They knew if they got open on their spot Bird would pass them the ball. MJ passed the ball if you had a hoop on your shirt. They were two different players.
6 років тому+48
This is a joke right? you obviously never REALLY watched his games besides the highlights. He was a 50% + shooter much of his entire career except the last 2 years in the league when his back really gave out. Up until 86-87 he was typically in the range of 49-52% average and 40+% from behind the arc.
@@larrylindgren9484 I know it's a different sport but Bobby Orr had they same effect on his team mates making them better so to speak; really would Phil Esposito have score 76 goals without Orr? People forget that was the record Gretzky broke. In getting back to Larry Bird you wrote; "MJ spend 8 years figuring out there were 4 other guys on the court that were on his side. Bird knew that day 1. Bird made players better around him. They knew if they got open on their spot Bird would pass them the ball". In sum It exemplifies that Larry Bird was much more than a shooter he was a team player from the get go.
@ maybe Larry Lindgren's stats are off but he makes a good point about Bird being a team player; he had an awareness of everybody on that court. It seems he involved everybody on the team, one way or the other; from stealing the ball, passing the ball, and yes, playing defense too. If I am not mistaken MJ didn't worked on his defense as hard as he could have until after he had already been in the league for awhile. There are interviews out there where he talks about that. Was Larry Bird faster, stronger and the best shooter in the league? Even if the answer is no, you knew when he was on the court his teams would win, and in large part because Bird was in the game and had a great sense of awareness where everybody would be. There are athletes in different sports where they talk about that sense of awareness that makes them stand out. With Bird I am sure in his mind everything was in slow motion and could visualize where the players from both teams would position themselves as the game was in play in real time. Anyway just my opinion.
The broadcasting look of the 80s and 90s is relaxing to look at. Idk why modern broadcasting is very load and bright now. Something very calming about the old designs
Years ago, I was watching some talk show - I forget which one - and Reggie MIller was a guest. At this point in time, Larry Bird was the head coach of the Pacers and he was telling stories about what that was like. Well, as Reggie tells it, one day, they were at practice, and some of the youngsters challenged Larry to a shooting contest. Larry, I guess putting on his best yokel voice was all, "Okay, fellas. You go first." I guess the young guys did okay, and then the Coach goes up and proceeds to make them look absolutely silly. All this time, Reggie - himself one of the better long-range shooters - is sitting back and thinking to himself, "seriously, what did these fools think would happen?"
Lakers fan here.. (at least before labum) Larry Bird was a thorn in the Lakers side back in the day, sure miss him now though. Sure Miss 80’s basketball 🏀
The great story about this was Larry Bird would walked in to that 3rd contest in the locker room, looked around the room at everybody and then asked...."so who's going to finish second?". Classic Larry Bird!
What's so amazing is that in the last 2 he handicapped himself. Chose the opposite court from where he was on fire and added a warm up jacket. Then started banking in stuff. Epic legend. Hard to compare eras but his name is secure as an all time great.
Yeah. A lot of people don't realize he often created an extra "degree of difficulty" for himself to maintain his interest, focus, and sense of accomplishment.
People point out that there are better 3 point shooters with Curry, Thompson, etc. but the 3 point shot was just part of Bird's arsenal. He could post up, he could pass, he could play D, he could rebound and understood the chemistry of the game. If he were playing in this era he would light it up when you consider he is a quicker, taller and better version of Luka and he does not have to worry about being grabbed and hand checked.
And the winner is Larry Bird. The same guy who could rebound and pass the ball with the very best in NBA history. No one else ever reached his level: GOAT.
Larry Bird is iconic when it comes to NBA basketball. He and Magic Johnson, and their rivalry, skyrocketed the league's popularity in the 80s. For this reason alone, Larry Bird is more important to the game than Lebron James, although James might be the better player.
Was he classy? I don't know about that. He knew who he was up against. The NBA hadn't been "classy" for over 10 years by the time he was a rookie. Obviously, it's only gone downhill. I still watch NBA games, but I would never consider it anything but a low-brow (still fun) sports league.
Agreed Olajuwon over Malone...but Russell (10 rings baby!) over Wilt. Russell blocks the shot, snatches it out of the air, feeds Magic on the break with Bird on the wing and MJ driving to the hoop as his options, Olajuwon coming up fast to rebound any misses...GAME OVER
At some point in time before this contest even happened, an opposing coach once bet him $20 he couldn't bank in a three in the game like he'd done in warm-ups. The opposing coach lost the bet. And the game. I've often wondered if that guy just lost another $20 with Bird's bank in the 3-point contest. Another time, a reporter bet him $5 on whether he could hit a left-handed three. His second shot was a left-handed three - Bucket. Bird tucked the fiver into his sock.
I suppose he's thinking that 3-pointers are a much bigger part of today's game, so players practice these shots much more these days. If Bird played nowadays, he'd also practice more than he did at his time and, as a result, would be even better. It makes sense.
I'm a huge MJ fan, but if you compare simply statistics and only stats, not talking about rings or athleticism or anything else, Larry Bird is actually the most complete baskeball player of all time. Why do I say that? Well, based solely off stats, Larry Bird is the closest player in NBA history to average a triple double over an entire career. He averaged 24/10/6. Not even Oscar Robertson was as close to a career triple double. He had seasons where he averaged a triple double but over an entire career Larry is the closest to averaging a triple double than any player ever. Find a player that was closer statistically and I will retract my statement, and sorry but Julius Erving didn't play all of his years in the NBA, fair or not. Of course Defense matters but many of his 10 rebounds per game were defensive rebounds.
He needed to make the last 3 shots to win in 88', and sure enough he made all 3. That's Larry Bird. Even if he was having an off night, he'd always make the ones he needed in the end
I don`t get this "best ever"-talk either. Most players in the NBA are highly competitive. I guy like John Stockton played 20 years in the league, he wasn`t there by accident, he probably worked his ass off every single day in the gym. But he is just one of many, many others..
+jso19801980 Because MJ is the type to cheat against an old lady in a game of cards just to win. His competitiveness stretches beyond basketball. It's practically a sickness, hence the gambling issues.
The way he pointed in the air before the final shot went in was vintage Bird. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say he missed a few on purpose just to give his opponent hope, then crush it.. LOL
The finger up and walk off wearing his warn up jacket before the ball dropped is one of the most gangsta moments in NBA history... 🔥
That was cold
He knew where the ball was going
Larry bird was the truth
Thats pure confidence just like his trashing talking that's y he's Larry legend
"If I needed a shot to win the game, I'd gave the ball to Michael Jordan. If I needed a shot, to save my life - I'd gave the ball to Larry Bird" - Pat Riley
"And if I needed a shot to save all of humanity, I'd give the Ball to Ray Allen" - I said that.
@@radar0412 and if Max kellerman wanted someone to save the universe he would say I WANT IGUADALA
@@radar0412 who the hell is Ray Allen
@@NBUltra187 Aren't you supposed to be commenting on Ice Dancing videos?
@@NBUltra187 one of the greatest 3 point shooters ever.
Bird is a legend, the best shooter,passer,rebounder combination in NBA history !!! Larry Legend ......most clutch Ive ever watched as well.
Larry Bird is the best all-around player in NBA history.
@@capitanfuturo594 Let me know when Bird leads 3 generations of Celtics to the NBA finals. Only one player has led 3 generations of his team to the NBA Finals, and his name is Magic Johnson. Who beat Larry Bird, THRICE.
@@TheLAKERSareGodsTeam Based on your convoluted logic, Eli Manning was better than Tom Brady. After all, they went head-to-head in two Super Bowls and Eli won both.
The only part of Magic's game that was even remotely close to Bird's was his passing.
@@MisterBill1975 Eli who is better than Brady who? What are you talking about? You make zero sense!
@@TheLAKERSareGodsTeam
It is not so straight forward. There some evidence to consider here.
I'm sorry to post so much here. But ...
Overall Yes, Magic had a better career, which is saying something! He did not wear out as fast as Bird. However, in their first 9 years in the league, 1980-1988 seasons, before Bird's double heel surgery in late 1988:
1. Larry won 3 MVPs to Magic's 1. (Would Magic win an MVP in 1989 anyhow even if Bird was healthy? I'd say yes).
2. Bird ranked higher in MVP voting than Magic in the 8 out of the 9 years. That is something to consider. Bird's lowest MVP rank was 4th, in his rookie year, and Magic did not even figure in the list of 9 players for MVP award. Kareem won it (Kareem was the MVP and Magic joined Kareem's team that also included Jamal Wilkes! In 1985 finals Kareem was the MVP. This wasn't quite like the "Batman" Shaq with "Robin" Kobe, but still Magic had an all-time great playing at a very high level during his first 4-5 years in the league).
1981 Bird was 2nd in MVP votes, Magic was 11th, finishing behind Kareem and Jamal Wilkes - his two teammates (so two other Lakers ranked higher in MVP votes that year than Magic. At the very least it tells you the talent they had).
1982 Bird was 2nd in MVP voting, Magic was 8th.
1983 Bird 2nd, Magic 3rd.
1984 Bird MVP, Magic 3rd, Kareem 4th.
1985 Bird MVP, Magic 2nd, Kareem 4th.
1986 Bird MVP, Magic 3rd, Kareem 5th.
1987 Magic MVP, Bird 3rd, McHale 4th.
1988 Jordan MVP, Bird 2nd, Magic 3rd.
All NBA teams 1980-88:
Bird 1st All NBA every year.
Magic: didn't make any NBA team in 1980 or 1981.
In 1982 he made the 2nd team. Then 1983-1988 he made 1st team.
Early on it was Kareem that was the premier Laker: All NBA 1st and All Defensive 1st: 1980 and 81. Kareem was All NBA 1st as late as 1984 and 1986. All NBA Defensive 2nd in 1984. That's a great teammate.
All Defensive Teams: Bird made 2nd All Defensive team 3 times. Magic never made any defensive teams in his career. (Which is surprising, I admit, because he DID lead the NBA in steals twice).
Moreover, Magic played against smaller guards and didn't mix it up inside as much, he wasn't banging and boxing out under the basket as much as Bird. You can watch NBA games and see this. Bird endured more wear and tear, made more hustle plays.
So Bird in the first 9 years (before the double heel surgery), ranked higher than Magic most of the time.
3. Bird's 1980 Celtics set a record for most improved in number of wins from previous season and this team didn't get any great players between 1979 and 1980 except one guy - Larry Bird. Meanwhile Magic joined the Lakers with the league MVP Kareem and also Jamal Wilkes.
4. After Bird returned from surgery (1989-90), and then his last two years with hurt back, Magic was better. Yes, if we look at the entire career, Magic had a better one. But in the 1980s Bird ranked higher most of the time (MVP votes, All NBA selections). Bird's career was cut short by double heel surgery and bad back, and beer drinking. Magic would have played another 5 years if not for HIV from sleeping around.
5. Bird was 6-0 vs Jordan in playoffs. Magic was 1-4. Is that a fair comparison? Obviously not, because we have to look at the supporting cast.
Best clutch shooter in NBA history!!!
Bird will always be the GOAT for me.
That finger in the air on the final shot.. damn that was cold...
The bank shot showboat was even worst I think
I love that arrogance....
AH H Cold!!
Yeah, it may have been cold but the dude had ice water in his veins so of course the finger was gonna be cold. Not only was it cold but it was beautiful to see, especially if you're a Boston Celtics fan, in particular a Boston Celtics fan who grew up watching Larry Bird. By the way, you get a "thumb's up" for your comment. I really like what you said and how you said it. That's why I'm giving you that "thumb's up.
@@johnkoziol5756 cool
Larry Bird walks into the locker room before the 3 point contest and says..."Okay boys...whose finishing second?" True Story.
He would lose 3point in today's game.
Curry 26
Klay 27
Booker 28
Buddy 27
St4r P
He’d also score 40 a game in the modern NBA, he’s Larry Legend and those players you mentioned are straight up lights out shooters, but they’re nowhere near the all around player Larry Bird was, plus he was 6’9”. Still never lost a 3 point contest in his era, admirable for sure.
St4r P he would come close to win actually there’s no money rack that’s why the score is lower...pretty obvious mate
@@HG-sl2ur not to mention that Larry Bird said himself he didn’t practice 3 point shooting
Stone cold kick your ass
Greatest shooter and clutch player in NBA history. With the game on the the line, nobody was better than Larry Bird.
Curry is the greatest shooter
Curry
@@hhh1200 and jonathan... just no...
I believe it was Pat Riley that said "I would pick MJ to take the shot to win a game but I'd take Bird to take the shot to save my life."
Over a career? He's played 9 seasons. Bird played 14? And Curry plays in the easy hands-off NBA. He'd get bitch-slapped and cry to his mommy back in the 80-90's! Guaranteed Jordan and Bird would make Curry wet his shorts right on the floor. NO BALLS in the NBA today. NONE.
The Long Distance Shootout (3-point Contest) was 1st introduced in 1986. Bird won 1986-88 (three consecutive years). League MVP 1984-86 (also, three consecutive years)... LJB is not only awesome... He's truly 'legendary'.
LeJames Bron?
Legendary LJB?stupid
@Dave Wesley Larry Bird would tell you himself that LeBron is on another planet.
Dark Matter
You know why? Because Mr. Bird was a very humble person when it came to giving credit to others. Just look up when Magic Johnson was inducted in to the Hall of Fame. Bird did not always like talking about himself! Go back to the 80s and if LJ was playing, bird would school him just like he did with all the other player GREATER then LJ will ever be jus look what LB did to MJ.
@Dave Wesley I agree, I think Larry bird was a little better than LeBron James, there both great tho, the goat would be Michael Jordan, I think Larry bird is the second best ever
The thing to remember about Bird is that he's also 6'9". That's unbelievable for a shooter like that. Before his back injury he was unworldly - about a 26/10/7 player - on a team where he he shared the ball a lot more. His USG% is 5 points lower than Lebron's career average. He also played in an era that did not stress the 3 point ball so he averaged only 1.8 3 pointers per game for his career. Now good shooters take 6 or more per game and there's little doubt that his ppg would be up another 1.5+ in today's world.
The guy would be the ultimate stretch 4 in today's game and given the hands-off nature of the rules he'd be virtually unstoppable. We're talking 30+ ppg to go with 8 or 9 rebounds. Truly a remarkable player and along with Magic simply guys that have no comparisons in history, modern or otherwise.
Bird had his back injury his whole NBA career
Malachi, not exactly. Bird somewhat infamously injured his back shoveling rock for his mother's driveway back in 1985 after winning his 2nd MVP award. The latter half of his career was played in severe pain and he has said more than once that he sort of wishes he retired after the 1986 season.
@@waltblackadar4690 remember they rode commercial and sometimes coach. Flight delays, odd times, no leg room. That'll take its toll. Plus they didn't purposefully sit out games and there was way more physical contact.
Good points. In 86/87 Bird averaged 28 points a game, followed by Kevin McHale at 26 a game, then Robert Parish with 17.5 a game. Bird is 6-9, McHale 6-10 and Parish 7-0. That's a three headed monster if I've ever seen one.
Very well said.
Larry Bird IS the GOAT. Bird made plays most of us have never seen or even dreamed about before he came along.
Larry Bird is the best all-around player in NBA history.
Well no. But waaaaay up there.
100%
Yes, he is the best all-around player. If he wanted to rack up the points, he could have, but he made the team better with his passing, rebounding, and defense...But passing on to his players was the key...
Bird!
Larry Bird was the most confident player I have ever seen. He did not fear anyone, He had ice in his veins and other players did fear him. The only other player that rivals his confidence and intensity is Jordan. The two most iconic names in basketball history is Bird and Jordan.
Bird and Magic, wouldn’t put Jordan in their class. Magic and Bird changed the league, the league adjusted for Jordan !
This guy was deadly ! just imagine if he would have actually chosen to take more threes throughout his career. The game was just so different back then but if larry bird played in this era with the high volume of three point attempts it would be interesting to see how many points he would average just off three point makes alone
And if the three point rule was in effect for Pistol Pete his avg scoring would have been much higher. One game for ex they added the three point line using high tech and the his points were in the 70’s.
@@jjs777fzr pistol Pete wasn't that good of a player, he isn't even a top 50 player of all time, modern players would destroy pistol Pete, especially the 80s and 90s era which were the strongest era's ever by far
@@jjs777fzr pistol Pete didn't have any good competition, the players in his era sucked, that's why pistol Pete was able to do so well
@@jakedooley5300 That's faulty logic. If Pistol grew up today he would be moving like today's players and more. He was one of the game's innovators and his ballhandling was ahead of its time -- it's actually a precursor to how modern players dribble if you look at it. before him players dribbled a certain way. Of course if he was plucked out of the late 60s and 70s he wouldn't be as impressive but that's not logical. Without his vision and how he paved the way for modern players, moves and the dribbling style of today wouldn't be the same. He would be Steph-like today. Not saying he'll be Steph but the accuracy and ball-handling is similar. A scoring point guard with high accuracy and skill.
Larry said he never even practiced 3s. Then didn’t really value them in his era
Larry Bird the best basketball player I have ever seen in my life
Bird... the best ever!
Jordan is but Bird is in the top 5.
@@quasar4601 one quote sums it all up "Jordon for the game bird for my life"
@@stevebrookshire7230 , Neither one was a nice guy. Magic was the nicer human being
@@quasar4601 what's being nice got to do it. I would take the word of one of the greatest coaches in history over a recliner chair fan any day
One thing is for sure: He was the best Trash Talker in NBA history
I been a Los Angeles Lakers fan since 1980. Even though he is an Arch rival. The man was amazing. A mirror image of magic Johnson of each coast. I miss those days of basketball. It different now.
Magic couldn't do this.
Think please. Magic was a point guard not a three point shooter
@@brianadkinson7012 My point is, they weren't mirror images.
In lots of ways yes they were think please
@@brianadkinson7012 It's you that needs to think, lol. But whatever you say.
Smartest and sharpest player to ever walk on a court
Bill Russell was probably the smartest basketball player to ever play. That is why he was the coach of the Celtics his last two years.
robertoamarillas yes, he had brains. Rare in the NBA.
nah smartest is lebron sorry
@@TheSilverfox1234 LeBron is not smart, he's an idiot when it comes to good play making, he's still a great player tho, he's definitely top 5
@@TheSilverfox1234 Yeah, that’s right: he at least had the brains to be born at a time that allows him to play in what is probably the NBA’s weakest era. That’s some big brain action right there.
He started wearing that Celtic's warmup jacket in competitions to handicap himself and give other competitors a chance.
Ah, it's an exaggeration. That jacket leaves the elbows free. If it was a real jacket it'd be a big deal.
D J
Costa del Artlepool aaa
@Costa del Artlepool lol
@@sleazyfellow Hahaha, long sleeve jackets aren't popular back then.
Larry Bird the best player ever
i quit watching nba when bird retired,best ever
Rick Hoffman Me too!! Heart Soul & Class!!! Clutch player!!! Saw him so many times make people pay for not paying attention!! "Bird steals the ball" all-time favorite!!!
Man u missing out a lot.
joab nyabuto *you're...and no, they're not.
A lot of white people did. LMAO!
Conway Twitty hard to say that if you havent been watching hm?
Thank you so much for putting all three years together!
When the money was on the line, Bird just went to work.
Yeah, I wasn't sure he was going to do it, but those last two racks were clutch. How many did he make of his last ten shots, eight?
People want to talk about Steph Curry as the greatest shooter I would beg to differ. Larry Bird was always on the money and he proved it time and time again.
Larry Legend... Only NBA player ever with 3 straight MVPs, and 3 straight 3 point contests...lol
You're amazing 4 this recopilation, i recognize The Hard work to find this
Best clutch shooter of All-Time!!! Nobody I'd rather have the ball being down 2 or 3 with under 10 seconds to go than Larry Bird!!!
My favorite small forward player of all time..
Larry Bird is better than Everybody in nba today.
Great comment!!!!
Brandan Adams How to tie-dye
Brandan Adams, It's true, but capitalizing "everybody" was totally unnecessary.
Without a doubt. Shit, Queen LeBron would have already tried to sue him for bullying.
Bird was built for today's game.
12:29 GOAT candidacy established.
12:20 Notice how quickly he threw up the first two shots of the last rack and then slowed down on the last three. It's as if he missed on purpose to make the ending more dramatic.
jp3813 or maybe he had time left and he needed to take his time while he shot ur so dumb man no one would do that for the win if u have time left u take it slowly and steady to secure the win man ur dumb
How about the money ball off the glass, that was too chilly.
jp3813 he could have
because exiting win
That’s always been the story .... that he missed some on purpose....I don’t believe that but jeez the guy in his prime was simply the best....
He banked a shot in a 3 point contest... Just.. think about that for a second...
Yeah, as a longtime Hawks fan, I know all too well about him hitting ridiculous left-handed shots in a playoff game; a Game 7 no less. I'm stopping right here to keep from banging my head against a desk...
A double money ball too 🤣😁😁
PS God Bless
Larry would kill it in todays game
He enjoys competition so, he handicapped himself with a warm up jacket to level the playing field. When you're a master at your craft, you tend to think of ideas that will entertain yourself. It's makes it fun when your lacking motivation, he always needs a challenge like, when he played an entire game scoring with his left hand. Why, because he could...
Unfortunately with the amount of money that players are earning these days, you won' t see such quality of these kind nowadays.
Oh stfu
@@dadillonful To whom?
it was more intimidating than a handicap
He palyed part of a game left handed against Portland back in 1986.
The mf made a glass color three on purpose come on man this is ridiculous
That was absurd. I really don't know who was more confident between him kobe and MJ
@@drummer8491 MJ and Kobe were relentless, but I'm going with Bird in terms of confidence when shooting.
@@drummer8491 bird would literally tell his defenders where he would shoot his shots and sometimes even for game winning shots
@@richmondxavieriringan7491 Hell, he did it in finals games NUMEROUS times
what do you mean glass color three?
I'd give anything to have the NBA be like the 1980s
Its really sad to see what has become of that league!!! Sad and pat
The NBA of the 80s was littered with plumbers and car salesmen. How do you think Jordan was able to physically dominate and put up such insane numbers so easily?
That can be (and is) said about any pro sport today - hockey, football, baseball...
@@tacocruiser4238 yeah you couldve beat larry bird...wtf you even talkin about?
The eighties was a terrific era for NBA basketball, to be sure! By the way, I like your comment so I'm giving it a "thumb's up".
Bird had the sweetest jump shot in history.
That would be Dirk
@@Mavericks411991 mavs profile pic so ur biased therefore L
the way he shoot 3s look so efforless
The theme from "Miami Vice" makes it all worthwhile
If I'm building a franchise I'm starting with Larry Legend Bird
Every time. And then I'm following it up with Tim Duncan
Miami Vice theme playing....God I miss the 80's
Boulderpits There will never be a decade like the 80's
I am coming up on 55 in May and yes indeed, THE 80'S were a WILD, SUPER TIME in all sports !!
Be thankful.. coz ur stil breath the air of millineals
Jan Hammer composer and pioneer of the minimoog synthesizer and one of the top fusion keyboard players from the 70s. Mahavishnu Orchestra one of the more notable groups he was affiliated with. Known for his sound as heard here too.
Boulderpits me too. The last great decade, especially as a kid.
I will take Larry Bird anytime, with the score tie in the last second, over Curry, Thompson, Miller, Kerr and Ray Allen
Bird really wasn't a great shooter. But he would got hot for a stretch which would bury you. The one thing he had shooting wise the he needed it, it always seemed to go in. He was money. 36% from 3? Not that good really. But when he made one it would quickly become 6 or 7 in a row. If I could take any rookie starting a team it would be him. His teams won out of the box. MJ spend 8 years figuring out there were 4 other guys on the court that were on his side. Bird knew that day 1. Bird made players better around him. They knew if they got open on their spot Bird would pass them the ball. MJ passed the ball if you had a hoop on your shirt. They were two different players.
This is a joke right? you obviously never REALLY watched his games besides the highlights. He was a 50% + shooter much of his entire career except the last 2 years in the league when his back really gave out. Up until 86-87 he was typically in the range of 49-52% average and 40+% from behind the arc.
@@larrylindgren9484 I know it's a different sport but Bobby Orr had they same effect on his team mates making them better so to speak; really would Phil Esposito have score 76 goals without Orr? People forget that was the record Gretzky broke. In getting back to Larry Bird you wrote; "MJ spend 8 years figuring out there were 4 other guys on the court that were on his side. Bird knew that day 1. Bird made players better around him. They knew if they got open on their spot Bird would pass them the ball". In sum It exemplifies that Larry Bird was much more than a shooter he was a team player from the get go.
@ maybe Larry Lindgren's stats are off but he makes a good point about Bird being a team player; he had an awareness of everybody on that court. It seems he involved everybody on the team, one way or the other; from stealing the ball, passing the ball, and yes, playing defense too. If I am not mistaken MJ didn't worked on his defense as hard as he could have until after he had already been in the league for awhile. There are interviews out there where he talks about that.
Was Larry Bird faster, stronger and the best shooter in the league? Even if the answer is no, you knew when he was on the court his teams would win, and in large part because Bird was in the game and had a great sense of awareness where everybody would be. There are athletes in different sports where they talk about that sense of awareness that makes them stand out. With Bird I am sure in his mind everything was in slow motion and could visualize where the players from both teams would position themselves as the game was in play in real time. Anyway just my opinion.
Bird is a great shooter in his era, but Curry is the guy that actually put 3-point line into shame!
The broadcasting look of the 80s and 90s is relaxing to look at. Idk why modern broadcasting is very load and bright now. Something very calming about the old designs
Years ago, I was watching some talk show - I forget which one - and Reggie MIller was a guest.
At this point in time, Larry Bird was the head coach of the Pacers and he was telling stories about what that was like.
Well, as Reggie tells it, one day, they were at practice, and some of the youngsters challenged Larry to a shooting contest.
Larry, I guess putting on his best yokel voice was all, "Okay, fellas. You go first."
I guess the young guys did okay, and then the Coach goes up and proceeds to make them look absolutely silly.
All this time, Reggie - himself one of the better long-range shooters - is sitting back and thinking to himself, "seriously, what did these fools think would happen?"
I can picture Reggie saying that 😅 Sometimes youngsters need to get taught a lesson
Lakers fan here.. (at least before labum) Larry Bird was a thorn in the Lakers side back in the day, sure miss him now though. Sure Miss 80’s basketball 🏀
The great story about this was Larry Bird would walked in to that 3rd contest in the locker room, looked around the room at everybody and then asked...."so who's going to finish second?". Classic Larry Bird!
I love how he is good enough to shoot and count his score at the same time
Classic Larry bird 😂 He put off the glass on purpose 😂😂
yeah lol and of course he does it with the 2 point ball.
Then he tries to rainbow in the last money ball 😂
And did it all WITH THE SHOOTING JACKET ON...I mean come on now...(!)
a bank shot from that distance is really tough.
But, did he call it?
A true champion thrives under pressure
What's so amazing is that in the last 2 he handicapped himself. Chose the opposite court from where he was on fire and added a warm up jacket. Then started banking in stuff. Epic legend. Hard to compare eras but his name is secure as an all time great.
Yeah. A lot of people don't realize he often created an extra "degree of difficulty" for himself to maintain his interest, focus, and sense of accomplishment.
People point out that there are better 3 point shooters with Curry, Thompson, etc. but the 3 point shot was just part of Bird's arsenal. He could post up, he could pass, he could play D, he could rebound and understood the chemistry of the game. If he were playing in this era he would light it up when you consider he is a quicker, taller and better version of Luka and he does not have to worry about being grabbed and hand checked.
haha that bank shot / off the glass shot is just adding salt to the wound
Спасибо вам за заливки. Смотрел Берда и Джордана в 90 и конечно же ровнялись на них в этой замечательной игре.
Всем счастья и добра!
Слава РОДУ!
If the GOAT Larry Bird plays today, he would drop 45 pts every night.
I remember watching this. NBA Golden Era.
Larry should of never kept the warm up jacket
And the winner is Larry Bird. The same guy who could rebound and pass the ball with the very best in NBA history. No one else ever reached his level: GOAT.
Larry Bird is iconic when it comes to NBA basketball. He and Magic Johnson, and their rivalry, skyrocketed the league's popularity in the 80s.
For this reason alone, Larry Bird is more important to the game than Lebron James, although James might be the better player.
Lebron rigged hes rings by joing other all-stars to win three not bird he got his without leaving The Celtics
Jordan said what i joined magic bird to win some rings how would it have been for him but Jordan was to competitive
Lebrons more important to the Obama ball huggers
Larry Bird by far is the best 3pt shooter that has ever played the game.
There's a video up of Steph Curry making 93 out of 100. @@freddiesalim5289
Bird was the most clutch player ever...ever.
Larry Bird has limitless range on HOF
Lmao 2:44 Suns out guns out
BIRD swishin those 3s like a machine , MAN !!.. dayum..
Larry Legend! Avg 30 ppg in 86! He would have destroyed the competition today. No space for a competitor and player like him in the league anymore.
Easily 40 on todays
Deadliest shooter of the 80’s
"Steph Curry? never heard of her"
-Larry Bird
He did that on purpose for drama and suspense lol and you cannot convince me otherwise.
Exactly. The same way Gene Sarazen used to hit the ball in the green side bunker just to show everyone how good he was at getting out to save par.
the smoothest ever..seriously
Nice video, Larry byrd was a very classy sportsman.
Was he classy? I don't know about that. He knew who he was up against. The NBA hadn't been "classy" for over 10 years by the time he was a rookie. Obviously, it's only gone downhill. I still watch NBA games, but I would never consider it anything but a low-brow (still fun) sports league.
Evidently the commentator can't count very well...Larry made 11 in a row in the first competition. Just amazing!
Larry legend
My dream all time starting 5:
PG-magic
SG-MJ
SF-Bird
PF-Karl Malone
C-Wilt Chamberlain
Scary that 4 of them were on the 1992 dream team.
Change karl for Barkley and im in
Olajuwon instead of Malone.
Shaq instead of Wilt.
Agreed Olajuwon over Malone...but Russell (10 rings baby!) over Wilt. Russell blocks the shot, snatches it out of the air, feeds Magic on the break with Bird on the wing and MJ driving to the hoop as his options, Olajuwon coming up fast to rebound any misses...GAME OVER
Chris And Amanda they are impossible to beat
And coming in off the bench? How about Stockton, McHale, Pippen, Dr J, Isiah, wow so many choices...
He shot off the board. Intentional.
At some point in time before this contest even happened, an opposing coach once bet him $20 he couldn't bank in a three in the game like he'd done in warm-ups.
The opposing coach lost the bet. And the game.
I've often wondered if that guy just lost another $20 with Bird's bank in the 3-point contest.
Another time, a reporter bet him $5 on whether he could hit a left-handed three. His second shot was a left-handed three - Bucket. Bird tucked the fiver into his sock.
IN 88, Bird wins with his jacket on..the best..
yes.its the birdie style
1987 too.
yeah i noticed that!
Loving the Miami Vice theme in background
22 point without one rack that full with money ball......damn....
Admar J. Junior Would have made it 26 in todays game
I suppose he's thinking that 3-pointers are a much bigger part of today's game, so players practice these shots much more these days. If Bird played nowadays, he'd also practice more than he did at his time and, as a result, would be even better. It makes sense.
Admar J. Junior thdhkk
grammar, use it.
Admar J. Junior translation please, anyone?
Now imagine if he could play today when there is no freaking defense and he'd be able to chuck up 9-10 a game.
I'm sorry but Bird would destroy Curry simply because of the "IDGAF what you think" attitude Bird had during his career.
The Miami Vice theme song playing in the background as Hodges shoots! Love the 80’s💥
gotta love the finger in the air before the ball went in! hell yeah!
Larry bird was savage.
Bird had ice water in his veins. Loved growing up watching him and Magic go at it.
I'm a huge MJ fan, but if you compare simply statistics and only stats, not talking about rings or athleticism or anything else, Larry Bird is actually the most complete baskeball player of all time. Why do I say that? Well, based solely off stats, Larry Bird is the closest player in NBA history to average a triple double over an entire career. He averaged 24/10/6. Not even Oscar Robertson was as close to a career triple double. He had seasons where he averaged a triple double but over an entire career Larry is the closest to averaging a triple double than any player ever. Find a player that was closer statistically and I will retract my statement, and sorry but Julius Erving didn't play all of his years in the NBA, fair or not. Of course Defense matters but many of his 10 rebounds per game were defensive rebounds.
And Bird has how many rings?
justafanintexas 3 and he lead them all to them, when he got drafted, the celtics were the 2nd worst team in the league
Mr. E. - And when the Bulls drafted Jordan they were what, defending NBA champs?
Warforisrael - Yet, Jordan has the best buzzer beater record of all-time. Pat Riley didn't like Jordan, so you have to take his comments accordingly.
justafanintexas no but I'm just saying that you shouldn't base a player off of rings. Then bill Russell would be considered the GOAT which he's not.
I like the perfect form of Schrempf shooting, just beautiful
Really? He looks like a newborn horse to me: clumsy AF.
BIRD = simply the best!
"he knew it,when he let it go" CLUTCH Bigtime!
Bird as good as anyone all time, moved really well for 6'9".
He needed to make the last 3 shots to win in 88', and sure enough he made all 3. That's Larry Bird. Even if he was having an off night, he'd always make the ones he needed in the end
bird was sick from the 3 point line ..
12:29 already has his finger up and knows he sunk the winning ball before it even sinks!
made it look simple
Idc what anyone says, HE is the greatest shooter of all time. Only doesn't have the records because he didn't take as many as shooters do today
back then that was real shooting I'm in the three-point line was even further back
yes -- I could be mistaken, but didnt they move it in about 3" after the Bird/Johnson era or so.
What a sweet stroke
The most competitive and driven player bar mj
I don`t get this "best ever"-talk either. Most players in the NBA are highly competitive. I guy like John Stockton played 20 years in the league, he wasn`t there by accident, he probably worked his ass off every single day in the gym. But he is just one of many, many others..
+jso19801980 Because MJ is the type to cheat against an old lady in a game of cards just to win. His competitiveness stretches beyond basketball. It's practically a sickness, hence the gambling issues.
jp3813 It got his father killed - the gambling.
justafanintexas wasn't it an armed robbery on the road gone wrong?
Larry Bird is the Goat
The way he pointed in the air before the final shot went in was vintage Bird. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say he missed a few on purpose just to give his opponent hope, then crush it.. LOL
That’s exactly what he did
He sure made the event a must-see for the fans.
Larry Bird was the truth!
One of a kind. They broke the mold
Wins it in dramatic fashion and sticks the finger up in the air, number 1.
They should have these again, and the slam-dunk competition too.
When you are that good of a shooter, you just know when you let it go! That’s why he’s called Larry Legend!!!
I like the All Star Weekend back in those days.
Always fun to look back in time--and that Miami Vice music!
I loved the NBA during the 80s. Looking back, the shorts were too short, but at least no one was bustin' a sag.