Larry Bird retired in 1992. Michael Jordan had started playing in 1984 and didn't win a title until after Larry Bird hurt his back. He was on his second title in 1992.
How can you possibly say those were lucky passes? He knew where every player (on either team) was at ALL times. He was in complete control of the game at all times as well.
What you overlooked in that first example of "ankle breaking" is that Bird then waited for the guy to get up and then he took the shot. That's cold, cruel, funny, and badass all at once.
I saw it like him being forgiving, like "Don't shoot a man when he's down", but now that I think of it may also be like "I'll let you get up, but you still can't do anything about it" XD
Just like what he did against Detroit one time. He got the ball and was wide open so he paused and yelled at the Pistons "Hey, Hey, who's guarding me? Isaiah Thomas then moved in so Bird took the shot and scored while hollering, "Too Late"
Yes, Larry Legend was considered the greatest ALL-AROUND game when he retired. I still consider him the greatest. Kareem - Greatest scorer ... Russell - Greatest defender ... Jordan - Greatest athlete ... Wilt - Greatest "way ahead of his time" freak athlete ... Larry Legend Bird - Greatest all-around player that EVER played hoops. No question.
For me, Bird is probably the greatest all round offensive player ever. Without being a truly elite defender, i can't consider him the greatest all round.... Definitely among the best, if not the best, at many things - Basketball instincts/IQ, will to win/clutchness, shooting, passing, deception, mental intimidation, etc.
Gotta give that to Duncan. Duncan was good everywhere, True Goat is Timmy, underrated af. But bird certainly is the goat SF and is ahead of lebron and I don't think there is a doubt about it.
In the 80's he would have gotten the "Rambis" for his antics. Jordan could get away with that because he was a proven beast who never stopped coming at you. Toughness isn't in leflops bag of tricks. If LeChina doll would have played in the 80's and 90's, he would have been limited to being a mostly perimeter player due to that lack of toughness. Can you imagine him battling Karl Malone or Oakley, or Hakeem for rebounds? He doesn't have the inner desire or physical toughness to play that style. He is, unfortunately, a vivid example of what basketball is now. He has every physical tool necessary, except for the heart.
You left out the beating he would take physically. Think of the famous highlight where McHale clothes lined Rambis. That was a hard foul where today that would be an ejection and suspension.
If LeBron played in the 80s he wouldn’t play the way he plays now. The way he plays now is optimal for the league rules. But, he’s 6’ 9” and was 260-270 pounds in his prime, and moved like someone much smaller. He’d be great no matter the era.
At this point, Larry had won 3 MVP's in a ROW (only one of three players to do so, along with Bill and Wilt), three 3 point contests in a row, 3 championships, and swept MJ TWICE in the first round of the finals. Very dominant in this era. Magic was his real competition.
I'd go one further, I think it would be harder for NBA players today to play back in that era.Era. Back then, GOAT wasn't really a thing, it was about which teams were the best and there were a lot of them. Beautiful battles each and every week.
Even Pacers players were moved emotionally by that comeback after slamming his face on the floor. LaSalle Thompson went up to Bird after the game (mind you they were just eliminated…in a close game) and told Bird “That was amazing! You’re an amazing guy. This is one of those things you tell your kids, and your grandkids about” How’s that for respect? That clip gets me every time. He was a broken man at that point, not just the face but 2 junk Achilles, bone spurs (ouch!!!) in both heels, abs a back that required literal traction before games! More amazing is , in that hobbled shape he was mere % points in FG% away from another 50/40/90 season. A true warrior and legend
All I can say is when they played in the Olympics and they were doing a photo shoot of the team but then then pulled 3 of the guys together for a picture of just them. Those three were Magic, Jordan, & Bird. That tells you how good Bird was.
I honestly consider them the top 3 of all time in no particular order. I put them all on the same platform. Wilt certainly comes into play somewhere close as well as Bill, then Curry and then LeBron.
I totally agree! Bird and Magic revived the NBA (in a big way!) Michael took it from there... I grew up in MA and Larry Bird is my Idol. @@TheRealMasonYoung
MJ would never admit that he got all of his moves form Larry Bird... MJ knows and anyone with a step back got it from Bird, Bird is the GOAT and called White Jesus, MJ turns to whatever Dude, “Never talk to Black Jesus like that again.” Oh and he got his trash talking game from Larry too. Bam make a video about that no one has noticed it and that hilarious.
@@pauljohns4484 He beat him in the regular season, but not as many times as Larry and the Celtics beat the Bulls.Jordan never got to beat him in the finals. 0-6, Celtics which makes Bird the only player, out of all the all-stars that got beaten by MJ at the Olympics warm-up games, to manage to get one over on Jordan in a way that he still thinks about and respects.
Just one person's perspective: As an "old" NBA fan (74 yrs old), I don't think there was so much conversation in those days about who was the GOAT. It seemed like people appreciated players more for their individual combinations of skills and had favorites for various reasons or were team fans. And, remember, Larry and Magic revitalized, some say saved, the League. And then, they were followed by so many other great players of the 80's. The Lakers/Celtic games were SO exciting, but so were many other match-ups. The reason Larry Bird was, and still is, my favorite player is because he made basketball so much fun to watch. He always was doing creative and surprising things and especially amazed everyone with his clutch plays. I had watched Wilt, Russell, Cousy, before and now basketball was fun, again. (By the way, Kareem was a force of nature and there was never any question about his skills and impact.) I think LeBron exhibits a lot of the characteristics that I liked about Larry: creativity, determination, skills. I prefer seeing Larry sneak into the basket and fool everyone to LeBron just smashing through, but otherwise they both make games exciting and fun.
Man I'm 60 years old I agree with you 100%. The point you made about that not being a conversation then is very valid and I hadn't thought about it till you mentioned it but that's true. It was never a conversation back then that I can remember. I think that the most impacting thing that lifts Bird above most is his clutch performances, NOBODY was better than bird in that aspect and really what do they make their money doing? Not building stats but winning games!
@@apexshaver7301 Thanks! And I agree with your stats comment, too. I get so tired of hearing commentators go on and on about players' stats. There's more to the game than stats; it's about winning and about the beauty of the game. Oh, and not being a selfish player.
@@rosemaryheilemann2229 Exactly. This is why I was never, and will never be a Jordan fan. Larry understood that bball is a TEAM sport. He wasn’t in it for personal glory. I respect that far far more than someone who shows off flying thru the air “look at me!” 🙄
@@irishgrl I absolutely agree about loving Larry for being a team player, which made the games so much fun to watch and is why I love basketball. But, Jordan was amazing and entertaining in a different way. I'm from the Chicago area, so he was truly a cult figure around here. I guess so many players have appeal for various reasons. I think one of the videos out there talks about basketball being a game where players have a chance to express their personalities and show creativity. I think that's true. I admire a lot of different players for various reasons, but I will always love, love, love Larry Legend.
@@irishgrl Jordan when he started winning Championships really did understand team play though. Especially during the second threepeat. Mature, wise Jordan was a great team player even though he was expected to be the main guy and scorer. He frequently stepped off to let his team get involved, facilitated when needed, defended like a boss and used his brain. That's why I prefer "older" Jordan to "flying" Jordan. Although he could still fly. Just less regularly.
Young man, I'm 48 years old. I was blessed to grow up in this area of the nba. This was a time of getting to watch true legends play and give it all they had for the love of the game. This area has been lost forever. Now, it's all about the money, the game I'm sad to say, is played with no heart in today's world.
I feel this to be the case in many sports and not just basketball. All money, no heart, and overhyping players to be "better than the past legends" based on numbers but not what was recorded on cameras or seen by their eyes.
“If I had to choose a player to take a final shot to win a game I’d choose (Michael) Jordan, but if I could pick one to shoot to save my life I would pick Bird.” - Pat Riley
You realize he used to tell the opposing players where he was gonna catch the ball, (call his shot) and then drain game winners in the other teams face. All the time. Most confident player ever.
Larry could always see the whole court , eyes in the back of his head. His passing was insane, amazing shooter, bad ass rebounder! And tough as nails!!Micheal said he made a lot of sad memories for him!
How good was Bird considered to be at the time? When Bird announced his retirement a reporter asked Michael Jordan for a comment. Jordan said "Thank goodness". Actually he said more than that, and his whole statement shows how highly Jordan respected him. The 80s belonged to Bird and Magic, even though the league was loaded with great players and teams.
The telling fact is that bird won three MVPs consecutively in the ERA with Kareem, Magic, Dr J, Dominique and all those greats... Just think about that for a moment
On April 20th in 1986, Michael Jordan erupted for an all-time NBA playoff record of 63 points at the Boston Garden against the eventual champions in the Celtics. It was Game 2 of the first-round series in the 1986 NBA Playoffs between the Celtics and the Chicago Bulls. Jordan dropped 63 and still couldn't beat Bird.
7:14 This is the greatest shot I've ever seen. He shoots and misses and follows it up with a rebound, forced to change right hand to left handed shot while in the air nearly going out of bounds.
I’m glad I’m not the only person to think that. I’ve watched several of these reaction video’s and when that shot comes up there is usually very little reaction to it and I’m thinking how can you not react to that shot? It was poetry in motion!!
One thing to consider about Bird, he was almost 6’10” barefoot so he’s actually a really big guy doing the things he does. He was a extremely good reboounder and played hard in the paint as well as finesse from deep. He certainly wasn’t the most athletic player but compared to the white stiffs his size he was very quick especially his first step. He had insane hand eye coordination too. I don’t think there’s ever been a player quite like him, the man averaged a double double for his career, 24ppg, 10rbd, 7 assists per game. Great reaction, it’s worth checking out more Larry videos, he was fun to watch!
Yes, young brother. Larry Bird was prominent in the GOAT conversation when he retired. I don't think anyone had him out of the top five, and the case for GOAT was strong! And I don't even think you got the best of it. You had the Indiana game highlights on mute, during the video. What you may not have gotten was that bird single-handedly did Indiana in, after that fall. He had a concussion, a broken eye socket, and double vision while he was doing it. Bird brings some powerful 💪💪💪strong credentials to the table.
Yeah doc tells the story where him and Coach Mike were talking about that it was one of the best film sessions ever where coach just kept re-running not the play, just the celebration, like 20 times Doc River said was the best film session ever
I agree. They're not allowed to even breathe on a player today, and in Bird's day it was viciously physical. He would light it up in today's no-defense league. .376 percentage on three-point shots and 88% from the line.
My introduction to the NBA was the 1984 finals, game 5 at the Garden. To this day I still don't know how my grandfather got the tickets, or why he chose me to go with him. I do remember how hot it was, it was like a furnace in there. The show Bird put on was amazing. That game, made me a lifelong NBA fan.
Larry Legend is the greatest SF ever .. Mr Legend would absolutely scorch these guys today .. His heart and hustle would blow the modern day NBA out of the water.. Bird would avg 40 easy with this modern day cupcake D
7:15 is the best play of Bird’s career and maybe one of the best of all time. The number of skills he displayed in the space of about 4 seconds is just incredible.
To answer your question at the end of your video, when Larry Bird retired, Magic Johnson was considered 1A and Bird was 1B. Everyone has to think about this, Bird was forced to retire because of his back. He literally had to go to the hospital before every game to undergo traction, just to be able to play. And think about this, the retirement ceremony in this video, took place on a night when there wasn't a game.... And it was sold out. I'm a old man and I watched him his entire career. These highlights are only a fraction of what he did and it doesn't take into consideration how he played the game. He was vicious. I remember an interview where the great James Worthy said that he would rather guard Michael Jordan than Larry Bird.
Bird is 6’9”. Arguing goat is like arguing over the temperature of hell…aka it’s hot no matter what the temp is. The key pt to take away is Bird absolutely deserves to be in the conversation. But let’s be honest guys who never saw him play say un-athletic because he’s tall and white and that’s exactly what black players said when he came into the league BEFORE they played against him. Well somehow this guy Averaged for his career 24.3 pts, 10.0 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 1.7 steals while being guarded by the best defensive players of the era from Michael Cooper, Jordan, Dr J, Pippen, Dominique, Rodman, Worthy, etc. He has same vertical as Karl Malone at 28”, but nobody refers to the mailman as un-athletic. His athleticism is way underrated. No he’s not Jordan or Gary Payton or Dominique athletic, but he wasn’t a sloth either.
But the real debate is, if Heaven and Hell are real, is Hell really hot and not cold though? The sun, which is day and light and is associated with good and life, is hot. The moon, which is night and dark and is associated with evil and death, is cold. If you're warm when you're alive and you're cold when you're dead, shouldn't Hell be cold and Heaven hot?
@@travisray2934 can't DUNK he has theBEAUTIFULIST dunk I have EVer seen' turn away jumper ended up being in FRONT of theNET THATS HOW BEAUTIFUL IT WAS ITS on video check it out hes MY GOAT............................................................................................................................................................................
Noooo! As a child of the seventies and eighties, I grew up watching Bird's career from his rookie year until the end and these highlights stretch that entire time! Like that one, where he follows his own shot and gets his own board? THAT was year 1. YES! Back in those days, Bird WAS considered the best of all time because he absolutely demolished ALL his opponents: Magic, IT, Kareem, Worthy, Cooper, FKG Laimbeer, and last but not least, Mike! Their Finals record in Larry's favor? 6-0! Bird was the only opponent Mike never got the drop on. Once Larry retired and Jordan's game really and truly took off, I kept watching him too. But, to this day and after all this time, I always wished that Larry had been injury free a bit longer because we, his rabid fans from back then we're NOT ready to let him go! 😢😭
At the 14:32 mark, your comment on how some of LARRY BIRD'S passes were little taps like playing the game 4 SQUARE was very insightful. One of LARRY LEGEND'S former teammates was asked what it was like to play on LARRY'S team and he replied "You always had to be watching Larry or the ball (passes) would hit you in the head."
Hey bro . Larry is 6’ 9” also same as labron . He would ware labron down mentally. James worthy said he would rather defend Michael Jordan Than Larry bird because you got to defend Larry as I think you’re getting in his mind. He was too smart for the game.
Bruh, nobody used the word GOAT in the 80's. We just marveled at his TOTAL DEDICATION...practicing, always practicing, every day, every day, to make the Celtics great.
as a 45 year old guy myself.. I was laughing my head off at the expressions on your face as you watched this video.. you don't see stuff like that today in the NBA lol
I'm 45 too and grew up thinking Celtics and Lakers were only teams worth being in league. Bird was a beast. Tell you what he was gonna do and dare you to stop him.
I would pick a prime Larry Bird over just about anybody. His willingness to win and confidence was pretty comical. He made fun of everybody and was just toying with them, until he was totally in your head, then it was the Larry Bird show. Oh I almost forgot his skills. He seen the way the play was going to come out to be, before it happened. He was playing chess and everyone else was playing checkers in the words the great Tommy Heinsohn, but he did see the floor like no other, and his prowess to score was all around, he could shoot like a marksmen, and give you a eye shrug and get you to jump. He was doing Harlem Globetrotter sh*t, wrapping the ball around your head, he was just in a class all by himself. Magic won more, but anybody facing them two at that time would rather see Magic, players feared the Great Larry Bird. Larry Legend. At one time though Bernard King was the only player that could dominate Bird, and Larry knew it. This made him work harder. Win more
@@linjicakonikon7666 I understand that, as a fan, yours is not an objective statement, but, we all know Bird never did and never would make such as claim.
If Bird played today he would be a much more efficient and better version of Luka Doncic especially with the 3pt shot and no hand checkin rules Larry would average 40 8 and 8 easy in today's league he would be a 50 40 90 guy plus he is clutch and talks alot of shit Larry would be a beast in todays league!!
can only imagine what he couldve done if he shot 3 pointers on a regular basis. 2 per game career average, really highlights his early coaching and that there was no 3pt line...
He would thrive today and the main reason other than all of his abilities is he's three steps ahead of everybody else 90% of the time. That's how he gets away with being not as athletic as most he's playing chess in everybody else is playing checkers he would definitely dominate in today's game as well if not more
I’m really not sure why everyone wants to compare him to Luka Doncic? First it’s not even comparison but second why don’t you compare them to all basketball players not white basketball players. Larry bird did not see collar he was just a great basketball player and that’s all he ever cared about being
To A your Q, yes! Magic vs Bird was THE rivalry. They were inseparable Co #1's at the time. Both top 5 all time. It started in college when Magic's Michigan state beat Bird's Indiana St for the NCAA title. Went on 4 a decade across many epic battles and several NBA championship title wars. Together they took the NBA to a completely different level of popularity and marketability.
You made my day. I love watching young guys having their mind blown by Bird. I'm a Bird stan. It's not just his playing. It's the shy dirt-born kid becoming this big time trash talking 'star'. He was rookie of the year, coach of the year and b-ball executive of the year, He's an enigma.
Bird is the epitome of putting in hard work and having a fight till you die mentality. That’s why he could do what he did despite looking slow and unathletic. A true role model for anyone striving to be great.
Indeed yes, Elizabeth. Bird was extremely athletic. He couldn't jump very high, but he had a lightening quick first step, and he could cover short distances without the ball as fast as anyone I ever saw. Also, Bird's endless cardio, his physicality, and his hand-eye corardnation was at least as advanced as anyone in NBA history, in my opinion. And on top of all that, he was taught old-school fundamentals from a very early age. Bird would own today's so-called superstars. Most players nowadays focus primarily on flashy dunks and 3-piont shots. Many of today's top players don't even know what a simple pick-and-roll is or what a backdoor play means.
When a weak move works, that’s because the guy guarding you is scared of you already by reputation. The more you get a reputation for killing dudes, the easier the game gets. People playing scared against you, all you need is a little shoulder shimmy to get a guy on his heels. The mental aspect of the game is so underrated.
Kareem said Bird was the best player he ever played against. Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell were asked to pick their top 5. They both picked Bird first. Magic said Bird was the best ever
Larry saw something special in Dominque Wilkins and always tried to show him something special each time to get an advantage. Great respect between the two legends.
The GOAT conversation was unique because everyone had Bird/Magic tied at #1, but recognized Jordan would take over as soon as they retired. I think most ppl had it like this: 1. Bird/Magic 2. MJ 3. Bill Russel 4. Kareem 5. Wilt
The 1986 Celtics were among the greatest championship teams of all time. They were operating on a level so high, the rest of the league just paled by comparison that year. There are plenty of highlight collections from that team here on UA-cam...find them and you will see true basketball greatness.
Watching Larry score 60 in the game against the Hawks was amazing. Seeing the Hawks bench cheering him on during it (which they got fined for) was amazing. Get the interview where Dominique tells the story. Nuts.
Bird would tell you what he was going to do, where he was going to do it from and then do it! All while talking trash to the player, the bench and the coach...#Legend
You just called his shot 'ugly'? First time in 40 years I've heard that. The reality is, the form on Bird's jump shot is perfection in motion. A style that many should emulate and many have.
I think a majority of people back then kinda saw Bird and Magic in their own tier, but it was no secret that Jordan was gonna take the game to a whole other level.... And we only got to see a healthy Bird for a few seasons. He badly hurt his back in 1984 fixing his parents driveway and had to have a doctor make adjustments to his back before every game from I believe 1986 til retirement. I remember him saying he should've retired after the '86 season because he could barely walk after games. And he still won the MVP from '84-86 despite this. It's what amazes me the most about Bird...tough as they come.
Nice reaction video....in his "prime" Larry Bird was the best player in the NBA in the 80's. Before all of his injuries (bone spurs in his heels, bad back), Larry was nearly unstoppable.
"If you put all of us in a room -- Magic, Jordan, myself and Bird -- Bird would probably be the guy who walks out of the room at the end of the day," says Isiah Thomas on ESPN Classic's SportsCentury series.
Lebron's passes aren't the same level as Magic and Larry. Magic was flashy and Larry's was very improvised. Lebrons is good, don't get me wrong but nowhere near as smooth.
Everybody knew the torch of greatness was passed to Jordon before the retirement of Magic and Bird. However, I've never liked the GOAT arguments. There are too many great players who, at a particular moment in time, had a unique style and skill unlike anything previously seen. And they brought great joy to those who were there to watch them. 😊
You have to understand when Bird and Magic came to the league they went to teams in need. 78/79 season Boston 29W-53 L, 79/80 season Larry's first year They were 61W-21L regular season. 78/79 for LA 47W- 35L, Magic Joins the team LA goes 60W, 22L. These 2 players saved the NBA. They stoked a rivalry that fired up interest and played for the heart of the game.
when Bird retired, he was arguably the GOAT. was between he and and Kareem, once MJ hit his 3peat, he was being considered the GOAT. As it is, Bird is still no. 2 in my book.
I kind of agree with you but something people do mistakenly is they always leave Wilt Chamberlain out of discussion really there's no discussion Wilt Chamberlain is the greatest of all time if you look at his stats they make everybody else's stats look like a joke. And I understand there was a different time back then different teams less games and all that but Wilt Chamberlain was absolutely dominant beyond any other description
For different reasons Jordan and Bird both have claims on being the GOAT. People usually give it to Jordan but I have a hard time doing that considering Bird is 6-0 vs Jordan in the playoffs, sweeping him twice. Head to head Bird got the better of Jordan for years. I think Jordan gets more GOAT talk because he was so much more athletic and his highlights are flashier. A longer career definitely helped as well.
With today's soft defense and the amount of threes they take, Bird would dominate. not to mention he played his entire career with a shattered finger on his shooting hand and he even said he was a better shooter before that happened. And with his back issues later. With today's medical advances he wouldve been healthier
The greatest ever. More end of time, game winning shots than anyone. Dropped 47 on Portland left handed! When asked by reporters why he used only his left hand, he said, I'm saving my right hand for LA, we play them tomorrow night! Won 3 MVPs during the greatest era of players. 3 3 point contest in a row , one while wearing his warm up stuff! Played the last 6 years with a broken back and blown Achilles tendon! Because of his back, they took a stationary bike to all games. Larry had to ride it, 1-2 hours before each game, to loosen his back, up!! Was the first 50/40/90 guy. When playing the bulls in conference finals, swept them! As a rookie, on third day of camp, came out and told reporters, this league is nothing, I will dominate this league! Worthy said, he would rather guard Jordan than Bird! Made 2 shots on purpose from behind the backboard! Got the whole Atlanta bench in trouble, for his shooting display against them. When the rockets had the Twin Towers, they should have won 2 titles. Bird and the Celtics, stopped them! He's the goat. Maybe the only better player was pistol Pete, but he just burnt out too soon, plus born with a unusually small heart pump side. He once told an opposing player who has a good first half against him, " are ur parents here, cuz ur not gonna want them to see, what I'm about to do to you!" So Bird drops 27 on him in the second half, and also shut him down. He tells the guy after the game, " that was for ur mom!" Ice cold! He played during an era, when there was no hack a Shaq foul, no finger hand elbow or body check fouls. And when centers and power forwards would break ur bones and punish you, if you went inside!
Patrick Ewing tells the story of going home after his first season and talking to his friends about Bird. He relates them talking about him being slow and not able to jump. Ewing told them he didn't know who they thought they were talking about, but Larry Bird was an absolute monster to play against.
Young people who have become accustomed to multiple televised NBA games every week and the extremely wealthy players in those games should say a sincere thank you to Larry Bird and Magic Johnson for saving the league. Pro basketball was a dying sport. The basketball world was all about college ball. Heck, Chamberlin's 100 point game isn't even recorded. Most pro games were tape delayed so you watched hours or days after they occurred. And then along came Larry and Magic.
For those that think Larry Bird was not as good as he really was. This comment is for those whom never had the chance to see him play. At that time it was not about the individuals stats it was about the win. But if you need some stats here you go: Here are some of Larry Bird's notable career achievements and statistics: Three-time NBA champion (1981, 1984, 1986); Two-time NBA Finals MVP (1984, 1986); Three-time NBA MVP (1984-86); 12-time NBA All-Star (1980-88, 1990-92); Nine-time All-NBA First Team (1980-88); All-NBA Second Team (1990); Three-time All-NBA Defensive Second Team (1982-84); NBA Rookie of the Year (1980); NBA All-Rookie Team (1980); Three-time NBA Three-Point Contest champion (1986-88); Career-high in points: 60 (March 12, 1985) -- tied for franchise record with Jayson Tatum; Named NBA Coach of the Year (1998); and Named NBA Executive of the Year (2012). Larry Bird, was the first player to accomplish the 50-40-90 achievement, and one of two players to achieve the feat in multiple seasons. Career averages: 24.3 points per game 10.0 rebounds per game 6.3 assists per game 88.6% free throw percentage 49.6% field goal percentage 37.6% 3-point percentage Now we can't forget that Bird famously played with two injured ankles and a notoriously cranky back that forced him to lay down on the floor during practice breaks. He li
Young man Bird won 3 straight MVPs. I seen him play and yes Luka reminds me of him. You don’t have to be an ultra athlete to play ball. Just gotta know how to play.
Bring Bird from 1986 with the smash mouth style league he played into the ticky tack league of today, hed dominate. Hed rain 3s, get on the line an insane amount of times and have a much longer career with better trainers n medical. Dont ever 4get Jordan,Bird and Magic got beat up on the court and still dominated
Bird would light up anyone in the current NBA. Fundamentals and a great feel for the moment. Todays players are just.. They just don't want it as much, sort of like anything these days. Blame it on participation trophies. Still just boils down to fundamentals.
I am old but not Larry bird old I watched mj but by the time I watched bird his back was out playing for the 1992Olympic team. Older cats will tell me this dude was ridiculous, I used to think maybe he was the great white hype but nah this dude was doing it against the best. he was actually lowkey Athletic
It was a much more physical game back then. When Bird started, games were tape delayed, on back channels, very rarely national tv. I was fortunate that I am from Mass, lived in Boston in the early 80's. even got to go to 1 game in 86 to see him play. I have heard people say Tatum is a top 5-10 player, he can't do 1/2 of what Bird could do.
Damn, putting Tatum in the same sentence with Bird is such an insult to Bird. Bird and Magic were the face of the league in the 80s. Tatum's just an all-star player.
Never been a Celtics fan but admired their legacy and the 'Hick From French Lick' is in my Top 5 ...EASY!...It started when I watched him that 79 season literally carry Indiana State by himself .....the man was genius like few others in any sport....EVER!
There was a time when Bird was considered the best ever, mainly during the mid 80's. By the end of his career, it was between him and Magic, though Kareem was also in the conversation to a lesser degree. Then when they retired and Jordan took over, pundits gravitated toward Jordan.
The goat conversation didn’t really start until Jordan retired...when Larry played, the talk was the best in the world. He fractured his cheekbone in 91 playoffs
There’s a clip somewhere during a game where the TV announcer says, “One way or another, Bird KILLS you.” And that’s the thing about Bird. He can score you to death or he can pass you to death and he doesn’t give a damn which one it is.
THREE-POINT LINE: The three-point line has been shortened from its previous distance of 22 feet in the corners extending to 23 feet 9 inches at the top of the key, to a uniform distance of 22 feet all around the basket. Also, players fouled while in the act of shooting a three-point attempt shall get three free throws instead of two
Bird’s passing was far superior to Lebron’s. Reggie Miller when comparing the two stated it as a matter of fact. Also, Reggie said he would take Bird over Lebron when both were 30. Remember, back in the 80’s they played tough as hell and fouls weren’t called for nothing like they are now
I love when reactors are surprised that Bird could dunk...he was 6'9". He could dunk he just didn't see a need to most of the time...got I miss 1980's NBA!
He knew that he needed ankle surgery or would in the future when he quit dunking. All the tall guys ankles get beat up trying to change directions on a dime. Larry was likely trying to save his ankles.
To be honest, Larry would probably be the best player in the NBA today. I am not someone who believes 80s and 90s players were better than players today. I think the best era was the 2000s cause that was when players were as athletic as today but the game was still super physical and all the best players had to score at all 3 levels whereas today they just need 3s and layups. Larry is different tho. He was 6 foot 9 inch sharpshooter who was a fantastic passer and a basketball genius. He averaged 10 rebounds per game in a very physical era when guys like Kareem, Moses, Olajuwon, Malone, Sampson, etc. were all around (a.k.a. the Golden Age of Centers). He is a mismatch on literally everyone and would probably be something like Jokic with even better athleticism, shooting, passing, and defense. He is probably too slow for today's SFs, but would be unbelievable as an undersized 4 or 5 and probably the best player in the league. Also, the pre-Jordan GOAT debate was such a mess because statistics weren't nearly as advanced and everyone's eye test was different.
I watched Jordan's whole career I watched Magic's whole career I used to love the NBA in the '80s in the 90s even to the mid-2000s but the last 10 years have been pretty trash for me. It's just so weak I can barely bring myself to watch a whole game other than the Celtics LOL it's just not even fun to watch anymore there's no positions, it just sucks LOL I watched Larry Bird's whole career(born in 1978 in Boston) he is most definitely better than LeBron. In fact LeBron may not even be top 10 all time. I say that because everybody I rank in my top 10 played in an era where the players were actually allowed to play physical style basketball and defense. LeBron never ever had to worry about getting hurt by another player ,that was a reality for every player I rank in the top 10 all time. LeBron never plays hurt LeBron has load management LeBron's NBA is all three points and dunks it's a positionless game where anybody can play any position and it doesn't even matter. Today's game is garbage compared to what it used to be if they bring a little physicality back into the game I might change my mind but until I see it for myself today's NBA is trash. So back to my point LOL Larry Bird won three MVPs in a row in the mid 80s which might be the toughest era in NBA history if you think Nicola jokic put on a show imagine what bird would have done he could have won five NBA MVPs in a row... maybe.... Lol I'm now understand because you're only 23 years old and you've never actually seen the NBA when it was a real man sport your opinions in my mind a valid for the extent of your knowledge good videos bro I hope someday you become a die hard Celtics fan take care man
Sound was cut off due to copyright issues. Enjoy!
Uh huh
Larry Bird retired in 1992. Michael Jordan had started playing in 1984 and didn't win a title until after Larry Bird hurt his back. He was on his second title in 1992.
Really? Doesn't seem to have been an issue for the many, many others that have reacted to this video
@@s3m4jno5w4d those others also probably not making any money off their video either
@@s3m4jno5w4d The sound did cut off for me.
As an old Piston fan, I think Larry Bird is STILL the greatest of all time.
Agreed.
Absolutely
From the Detroit area. And Larry put hurt on everyone. And backed it up!!!!
Plus he would fit in perfectly with how the game is now.
How can you possibly say those were lucky passes? He knew where every player (on either team) was at ALL times. He was in complete control of the game at all times as well.
You are so right. His court vision and awareness were unparalleled.
That’s why he’s one of the GOATS
Yes because Larry wasn't one to try those passes when he DIDN'T know. He was the Gretzky of Basketball. Or is it the other way around? 🤔
@@jeffreyglenellen1188 I got him as THEE GOAT. MJ took more shots and freethrows per game...
I think every "lucky pass" was to McHale. Even if Bird only knew where *one* other player was, it was always McHale.
What you overlooked in that first example of "ankle breaking" is that Bird then waited for the guy to get up and then he took the shot. That's cold, cruel, funny, and badass all at once.
Dude, I've watched the mix-tape a few times, and I never noticed that.
I saw it like him being forgiving, like "Don't shoot a man when he's down", but now that I think of it may also be like "I'll let you get up, but you still can't do anything about it" XD
Just like what he did against Detroit one time. He got the ball and was wide open so he paused and yelled at the Pistons "Hey, Hey, who's guarding me? Isaiah Thomas then moved in so Bird took the shot and scored while hollering, "Too Late"
@@jpjpjp453 I laughed out loud at this comment. Upvoted.
I never noticed that!!
Yes, Larry Legend was considered the greatest ALL-AROUND game when he retired. I still consider him the greatest. Kareem - Greatest scorer ... Russell - Greatest defender ... Jordan - Greatest athlete ... Wilt - Greatest "way ahead of his time" freak athlete ... Larry Legend Bird - Greatest all-around player that EVER played hoops. No question.
I agree whole-heartedly. He was a joy to watch play.
For me, Bird is probably the greatest all round offensive player ever. Without being a truly elite defender, i can't consider him the greatest all round.... Definitely among the best, if not the best, at many things - Basketball instincts/IQ, will to win/clutchness, shooting, passing, deception, mental intimidation, etc.
Wilt was the greatest rebounder for sure
I feel about it the way you do brother. 👍
Gotta give that to Duncan. Duncan was good everywhere, True Goat is Timmy, underrated af. But bird certainly is the goat SF and is ahead of lebron and I don't think there is a doubt about it.
If Lebron played in the 80s he would set the record for most traveling violations. And most bricks.
😂
In the 80's he would have gotten the "Rambis" for his antics. Jordan could get away with that because he was a proven beast who never stopped coming at you. Toughness isn't in leflops bag of tricks. If LeChina doll would have played in the 80's and 90's, he would have been limited to being a mostly perimeter player due to that lack of toughness. Can you imagine him battling Karl Malone or Oakley, or Hakeem for rebounds? He doesn't have the inner desire or physical toughness to play that style. He is, unfortunately, a vivid example of what basketball is now. He has every physical tool necessary, except for the heart.
You left out the beating he would take physically. Think of the famous highlight where McHale clothes lined Rambis. That was a hard foul where today that would be an ejection and suspension.
If he played then he would have had a very short career. Dude needs bubble wrap to play
If LeBron played in the 80s he wouldn’t play the way he plays now. The way he plays now is optimal for the league rules. But, he’s 6’ 9” and was 260-270 pounds in his prime, and moved like someone much smaller. He’d be great no matter the era.
At this point, Larry had won 3 MVP's in a ROW (only one of three players to do so, along with Bill and Wilt), three 3 point contests in a row, 3 championships, and swept MJ TWICE in the first round of the finals. Very dominant in this era. Magic was his real competition.
"There wil never, ever, ever, be another Larry Bird" - Magic Johnson
Dive into Larry's videos, you won't regret it.
Was going to like this comment, but it's at "33"
@@GQNERD it's now at 66....that's two Larry Birds lol
I'd go one further, I think it would be harder for NBA players today to play back in that era.Era. Back then, GOAT wasn't really a thing, it was about which teams were the best and there were a lot of them. Beautiful battles each and every week.
and it was a whole lot more physical. then it is today ..
@@apwmojack bingo.. you said the right thing... Amen
Even Pacers players were moved emotionally by that comeback after slamming his face on the floor. LaSalle Thompson went up to Bird after the game (mind you they were just eliminated…in a close game) and told Bird “That was amazing! You’re an amazing guy. This is one of those things you tell your kids, and your grandkids about” How’s that for respect? That clip gets me every time. He was a broken man at that point, not just the face but 2 junk Achilles, bone spurs (ouch!!!) in both heels, abs a back that required literal traction before games! More amazing is , in that hobbled shape he was mere % points in FG% away from another 50/40/90 season. A true warrior and legend
All I can say is when they played in the Olympics and they were doing a photo shoot of the team but then then pulled 3 of the guys together for a picture of just them. Those three were Magic, Jordan, & Bird. That tells you how good Bird was.
I honestly consider them the top 3 of all time in no particular order. I put them all on the same platform. Wilt certainly comes into play somewhere close as well as Bill, then Curry and then LeBron.
I totally agree! Bird and Magic revived the NBA (in a big way!) Michael took it from there... I grew up in MA and Larry Bird is my Idol.
@@TheRealMasonYoung
Larry Bird was a Beast!! He’s the only player who swept Michael Jordan twice!!
And Bird called him the 🐐 by 1988
Bird has stated that he thinks Magic and Jordan are about the best ever.
MJ would never admit that he got all of his moves form Larry Bird... MJ knows and anyone with a step back got it from Bird, Bird is the GOAT and called White Jesus, MJ turns to whatever Dude, “Never talk to Black Jesus like that again.” Oh and he got his trash talking game from Larry too. Bam make a video about that no one has noticed it and that hilarious.
MJ never beat Bird . Did not win a ring till bird retired and never really beat anybody to get his rings
@@pauljohns4484 He beat him in the regular season, but not as many times as Larry and the Celtics beat the Bulls.Jordan never got to beat him in the finals. 0-6, Celtics which makes Bird the only player, out of all the all-stars that got beaten by MJ at the Olympics warm-up games, to manage to get one over on Jordan in a way that he still thinks about and respects.
He reminds you of no one! He can’t be compared! He’s on his own level
Just one person's perspective: As an "old" NBA fan (74 yrs old), I don't think there was so much conversation in those days about who was the GOAT. It seemed like people appreciated players more for their individual combinations of skills and had favorites for various reasons or were team fans. And, remember, Larry and Magic revitalized, some say saved, the League. And then, they were followed by so many other great players of the 80's. The Lakers/Celtic games were SO exciting, but so were many other match-ups. The reason Larry Bird was, and still is, my favorite player is because he made basketball so much fun to watch. He always was doing creative and surprising things and especially amazed everyone with his clutch plays. I had watched Wilt, Russell, Cousy, before and now basketball was fun, again. (By the way, Kareem was a force of nature and there was never any question about his skills and impact.) I think LeBron exhibits a lot of the characteristics that I liked about Larry: creativity, determination, skills. I prefer seeing Larry sneak into the basket and fool everyone to LeBron just smashing through, but otherwise they both make games exciting and fun.
Man I'm 60 years old I agree with you 100%. The point you made about that not being a conversation then is very valid and I hadn't thought about it till you mentioned it but that's true. It was never a conversation back then that I can remember. I think that the most impacting thing that lifts Bird above most is his clutch performances, NOBODY was better than bird in that aspect and really what do they make their money doing? Not building stats but winning games!
@@apexshaver7301 Thanks! And I agree with your stats comment, too. I get so tired of hearing commentators go on and on about players' stats. There's more to the game than stats; it's about winning and about the beauty of the game. Oh, and not being a selfish player.
@@rosemaryheilemann2229
Exactly. This is why I was never, and will never be a Jordan fan.
Larry understood that bball is a TEAM sport. He wasn’t in it for personal glory. I respect that far far more than someone who shows off flying thru the air “look at me!” 🙄
@@irishgrl I absolutely agree about loving Larry for being a team player, which made the games so much fun to watch and is why I love basketball. But, Jordan was amazing and entertaining in a different way. I'm from the Chicago area, so he was truly a cult figure around here. I guess so many players have appeal for various reasons. I think one of the videos out there talks about basketball being a game where players have a chance to express their personalities and show creativity. I think that's true. I admire a lot of different players for various reasons, but I will always love, love, love Larry Legend.
@@irishgrl Jordan when he started winning Championships really did understand team play though. Especially during the second threepeat. Mature, wise Jordan was a great team player even though he was expected to be the main guy and scorer. He frequently stepped off to let his team get involved, facilitated when needed, defended like a boss and used his brain. That's why I prefer "older" Jordan to "flying" Jordan. Although he could still fly. Just less regularly.
Young man, I'm 48 years old. I was blessed to grow up in this area of the nba. This was a time of getting to watch true legends play and give it all they had for the love of the game. This area has been lost forever. Now, it's all about the money, the game I'm sad to say, is played with no heart in today's world.
Amen!
I feel this to be the case in many sports and not just basketball. All money, no heart, and overhyping players to be "better than the past legends" based on numbers but not what was recorded on cameras or seen by their eyes.
“If I had to choose a player to take a final shot to win a game I’d choose (Michael) Jordan, but if I could pick one to shoot to save my life I would pick Bird.” - Pat Riley
If I had to choose a player to take a final shot to save the Universe I'd pick Ray Allen.
@@radar0412 who ?
@@rrod6832 Just the guy who made the biggest shot in NBA Championship history. 😎
@@radar0412 But Bird did it year in and year out - game after game.
@@radar0412 Way to let everyone know that you haven't studied the game during the 80's. Hope that works out for ya lolol
80's physicality was so severe in comparison to today.
You realize he used to tell the opposing players where he was gonna catch the ball, (call his shot) and then drain game winners in the other teams face. All the time. Most confident player ever.
Larry could always see the whole court , eyes in the back of his head. His passing was insane, amazing shooter, bad ass rebounder! And tough as nails!!Micheal said he made a lot of sad memories for him!
How good was Bird considered to be at the time? When Bird announced his retirement a reporter asked Michael Jordan for a comment. Jordan said "Thank goodness". Actually he said more than that, and his whole statement shows how highly Jordan respected him.
The 80s belonged to Bird and Magic, even though the league was loaded with great players and teams.
The telling fact is that bird won three MVPs consecutively in the ERA with Kareem, Magic, Dr J, Dominique and all those greats... Just think about that for a moment
@@apexshaver7301
Exacterly.
@@apexshaver7301 67% of all MVP votes during the 1980s went to Larry Bird. He finished second 4 or 5 times. Should have won more than 3 honestly.
On April 20th in 1986, Michael Jordan erupted for an all-time NBA playoff record of 63 points at the Boston Garden against the eventual champions in the Celtics. It was Game 2 of the first-round series in the 1986 NBA Playoffs between the Celtics and the Chicago Bulls. Jordan dropped 63 and still couldn't beat Bird.
@@Holinyx Yes, and Boston still won that game, plus all the other playoff games, both years, against The Bulls and Jordan.
He would DOMINATE in today’s league. He dominated when they could foul you he could definitely do it when they can’t.
Fun fact,Jordan never won a playoff game against Larry bird 6-0
7:14 This is the greatest shot I've ever seen. He shoots and misses and follows it up with a rebound, forced to change right hand to left handed shot while in the air nearly going out of bounds.
I remember seeing that shot live on the tube. It was other worldly. I've never seen anything like it before or since.
Red Auerbach said it was the best shot he had ever seen too.
@@usx06240 Wow, really?
I’m glad I’m not the only person to think that. I’ve watched several of these reaction video’s and when that shot comes up there is usually very little reaction to it and I’m thinking how can you not react to that shot? It was poetry in motion!!
@@johnpurvis4753 Yeah, a lot of times they miss it! I'm glad you're with me!
He is the only one to enter the Hall of Fame as a player, a coach, and an executive...
It’s incomprehensible to me how a person can be a Celtics fan & not have paid attention to Larry Legend! 😮
Lmfao...I was confused too. Like wtf...a Celtics' fan...but haven't watched Bird highlights???
One thing to consider about Bird, he was almost 6’10” barefoot so he’s actually a really big guy doing the things he does. He was a extremely good reboounder and played hard in the paint as well as finesse from deep.
He certainly wasn’t the most athletic player but compared to the white stiffs his size he was very quick especially his first step. He had insane hand eye coordination too.
I don’t think there’s ever been a player quite like him, the man averaged a double double for his career, 24ppg, 10rbd, 7 assists per game.
Great reaction, it’s worth checking out more Larry videos, he was fun to watch!
Sure, “Larry”…. lol
@@petercha3387 Huh?
Yes, young brother. Larry Bird was prominent in the GOAT conversation when he retired. I don't think anyone had him out of the top five, and the case for GOAT was strong!
And I don't even think you got the best of it. You had the Indiana game highlights on mute, during the video. What you may not have gotten was that bird single-handedly did Indiana in, after that fall. He had a concussion, a broken eye socket, and double vision while he was doing it.
Bird brings some powerful 💪💪💪strong credentials to the table.
6:12. Best one is the Hawks bench laughing during the game as Larry is beating them. The coach was irate afterwards.
Yeah doc tells the story where him and Coach Mike were talking about that it was one of the best film sessions ever where coach just kept re-running not the play, just the celebration, like 20 times Doc River said was the best film session ever
@@apexshaver7301 lol
@@skydust1269 That's what only legends can do.
Jaylen: Best Comment Award...
I love watching people's reaction to Larry Bird. It's priceles. Larry Bird is my favorite player of all time. He was a hell of a player.
Bird was an assassin and would dominate even more in today’s NBA! I grew up watching Bird vs Magic and the games were always awesome!
I agree. They're not allowed to even breathe on a player today, and in Bird's day it was viciously physical. He would light it up in today's no-defense league. .376 percentage on three-point shots and 88% from the line.
Same here. I watched them play in the early 80's. Bird vs Magic was always a great matchup.
My introduction to the NBA was the 1984 finals, game 5 at the Garden. To this day I still don't know how my grandfather got the tickets, or why he chose me to go with him. I do remember how hot it was, it was like a furnace in there. The show Bird put on was amazing. That game, made me a lifelong NBA fan.
Larry Legend is the greatest SF ever .. Mr Legend would absolutely scorch these guys today .. His heart and hustle would blow the modern day NBA out of the water.. Bird would avg 40 easy with this modern day cupcake D
7:15 is the best play of Bird’s career and maybe one of the best of all time. The number of skills he displayed in the space of about 4 seconds is just incredible.
I'm 24, I'm jealous of my parents' generation who got to see Kareem, Bird, Magic and Jordan in their primes. What an era for the NBA!
To answer your question at the end of your video, when Larry Bird retired, Magic Johnson was considered 1A and Bird was 1B.
Everyone has to think about this, Bird was forced to retire because of his back. He literally had to go to the hospital before every game to undergo traction, just to be able to play.
And think about this, the retirement ceremony in this video, took place on a night when there wasn't a game.... And it was sold out.
I'm a old man and I watched him his entire career. These highlights are only a fraction of what he did and it doesn't take into consideration how he played the game. He was vicious.
I remember an interview where the great James Worthy said that he would rather guard Michael Jordan than Larry Bird.
Bird is 6’9”. Arguing goat is like arguing over the temperature of hell…aka it’s hot no matter what the temp is. The key pt to take away is Bird absolutely deserves to be in the conversation. But let’s be honest guys who never saw him play say un-athletic because he’s tall and white and that’s exactly what black players said when he came into the league BEFORE they played against him. Well somehow this guy Averaged for his career 24.3 pts, 10.0 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 1.7 steals while being guarded by the best defensive players of the era from Michael Cooper, Jordan, Dr J, Pippen, Dominique, Rodman, Worthy, etc. He has same vertical as Karl Malone at 28”, but nobody refers to the mailman as un-athletic. His athleticism is way underrated. No he’s not Jordan or Gary Payton or Dominique athletic, but he wasn’t a sloth either.
Exacterly.
I know, it's common knowledge that he "can't dunk" but somehow he's got like half the clips here showing him catching bodies. Looks decieve.
But the real debate is, if Heaven and Hell are real, is Hell really hot and not cold though? The sun, which is day and light and is associated with good and life, is hot. The moon, which is night and dark and is associated with evil and death, is cold. If you're warm when you're alive and you're cold when you're dead, shouldn't Hell be cold and Heaven hot?
@@travisray2934 can't DUNK he has theBEAUTIFULIST dunk I have EVer seen' turn away jumper ended up being in FRONT of theNET THATS HOW BEAUTIFUL IT WAS ITS on video check it out hes MY GOAT............................................................................................................................................................................
@@moonakieater2308 No. The heat of Hell is a metaphor for the torment and agony there, not necessarily physical temperature.
Noooo! As a child of the seventies and eighties, I grew up watching Bird's career from his rookie year until the end and these highlights stretch that entire time! Like that one, where he follows his own shot and gets his own board? THAT was year 1.
YES! Back in those days, Bird WAS considered the best of all time because he absolutely demolished ALL his opponents: Magic, IT, Kareem, Worthy, Cooper, FKG Laimbeer, and last but not least, Mike! Their Finals record in Larry's favor? 6-0! Bird was the only opponent Mike never got the drop on. Once Larry retired and Jordan's game really and truly took off, I kept watching him too. But, to this day and after all this time, I always wished that Larry had been injury free a bit longer because we, his rabid fans from back then we're NOT ready to let him go! 😢😭
At the 14:32 mark, your comment on how some of LARRY BIRD'S passes were little taps like playing the game 4 SQUARE was very insightful. One of LARRY LEGEND'S former teammates was asked what it was like to play on LARRY'S team and he replied "You always had to be watching Larry or the ball (passes) would hit you in the head."
🤣😂
When he makes that pass work once, it's luck. When he makes that pass work over and over again, that's SKILL.
Hey bro . Larry is 6’ 9” also same as labron . He would ware labron down mentally. James worthy said he would rather defend Michael Jordan Than Larry bird because you got to defend Larry as I think you’re getting in his mind. He was too smart for the game.
James Worthy said, "We knew what Jordan was going to do, but Larry found a new way to break our hearts every night. "
6'10"
Bruh, nobody used the word GOAT in the 80's. We just marveled at his TOTAL DEDICATION...practicing, always practicing, every day, every day, to make the Celtics great.
as a 45 year old guy myself.. I was laughing my head off at the expressions on your face as you watched this video.. you don't see stuff like that today in the NBA lol
I'm 45 too and grew up thinking Celtics and Lakers were only teams worth being in league. Bird was a beast. Tell you what he was gonna do and dare you to stop him.
here have fun watching a true wizard...I am 63 and remember watching the Pistol destroy people.
ua-cam.com/video/tG2sJIJ9G84/v-deo.html
Bird would have 30 points at the foul line in this day's game.
I would pick a prime Larry Bird over just about anybody. His willingness to win and confidence was pretty comical. He made fun of everybody and was just toying with them, until he was totally in your head, then it was the Larry Bird show. Oh I almost forgot his skills. He seen the way the play was going to come out to be, before it happened. He was playing chess and everyone else was playing checkers in the words the great Tommy Heinsohn, but he did see the floor like no other, and his prowess to score was all around, he could shoot like a marksmen, and give you a eye shrug and get you to jump. He was doing Harlem Globetrotter sh*t, wrapping the ball around your head, he was just in a class all by himself. Magic won more, but anybody facing them two at that time would rather see Magic, players feared the Great Larry Bird. Larry Legend. At one time though Bernard King was the only player that could dominate Bird, and Larry knew it. This made him work harder. Win more
BIG FACTS 💯🔥☝
I'd still take prime MJ... Bird would be my #2.
You are right on the money.
I wouldn’t say Bernard King dominated Bird, but he did challenge him. As did Dr J and Dominique & Magic of course. But Larry was usually victorious.
LARRY has said MICHAEL COOPER of the LOS ANGELOS LAKERS defend him the best. That is some high praise to MC from LB.
Bird is a legend! Growing up watching Bird vs Magic was a gift. As a Laker fan I "hated" ALL the Celtics but respected their great teams.
GOAT arguments were rarely discussed amongst the greats in team sports.
True. That came along with all the hype surrounding MJ. 🙄
Goats are barnyard animals. Larry Bird was the UNO! : Undisputed Number One!
That’s because they didn’t care who the best player was they just wanted to win and that was the priority
@@linjicakonikon7666 I understand that, as a fan, yours is not an objective statement, but, we all know Bird never did and never would make such as claim.
Larry Legend was the very best to play the game. He was a basketball juggernaut!
If Bird played today he would be a much more efficient and better version of Luka Doncic especially with the 3pt shot and no hand checkin rules Larry would average 40 8 and 8 easy in today's league he would be a 50 40 90 guy plus he is clutch and talks alot of shit Larry would be a beast in todays league!!
and he was the originator of the 50 40 90 club.
can only imagine what he couldve done if he shot 3 pointers on a regular basis. 2 per game career average, really highlights his early coaching and that there was no 3pt line...
I totally 100% agree.
He would thrive today and the main reason other than all of his abilities is he's three steps ahead of everybody else 90% of the time. That's how he gets away with being not as athletic as most he's playing chess in everybody else is playing checkers he would definitely dominate in today's game as well if not more
I’m really not sure why everyone wants to compare him to Luka Doncic? First it’s not even comparison but second why don’t you compare them to all basketball players not white basketball players. Larry bird did not see collar he was just a great basketball player and that’s all he ever cared about being
To A your Q, yes!
Magic vs Bird was THE rivalry. They were inseparable Co #1's at the time. Both top 5 all time. It started in college when Magic's Michigan state beat Bird's Indiana St for the NCAA title. Went on 4 a decade across many epic battles and several NBA championship title wars.
Together they took the NBA to a completely different level of popularity and marketability.
I'll tell you who Larry Bird reminds you of Larry Bird he was one-of-a-kind
He reminds you of No-One. As Magic said, "There will NEVER be another Larry Bird".
You made my day. I love watching young guys having their mind blown by Bird. I'm a Bird stan. It's not just his playing. It's the shy dirt-born kid becoming this big time trash talking 'star'. He was rookie of the year, coach of the year and b-ball executive of the year, He's an enigma.
Bird is the epitome of putting in hard work and having a fight till you die mentality. That’s why he could do what he did despite looking slow and unathletic. A true role model for anyone striving to be great.
He was athletic even though people say he wasn’t. He would still run the court today just like he did in the past. He was a mental player.
Indeed yes, Elizabeth. Bird was extremely athletic. He couldn't jump very high, but he had a lightening quick first step, and he could cover short distances without the ball as fast as anyone I ever saw.
Also, Bird's endless cardio, his physicality, and his hand-eye corardnation was at least as advanced as anyone in NBA history, in my opinion. And on top of all that, he was taught old-school fundamentals from a very early age.
Bird would own today's so-called superstars. Most players nowadays focus primarily on flashy dunks and 3-piont shots. Many of today's top players don't even know what a simple pick-and-roll is or what a backdoor play means.
When a weak move works, that’s because the guy guarding you is scared of you already by reputation. The more you get a reputation for killing dudes, the easier the game gets. People playing scared against you, all you need is a little shoulder shimmy to get a guy on his heels. The mental aspect of the game is so underrated.
The greatest contribution to the NBA: Bird and Magic...and Magic and Bird...Among the greatest players of the era...The MEN who saved the NBA!
Kareem said Bird was the best player he ever played against. Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell were asked to pick their top 5. They both picked Bird first. Magic said Bird was the best ever
Larry saw something special in Dominque Wilkins and always tried to show him something special each time to get an advantage. Great respect between the two legends.
I love Dominique!! Class act!
Pete Maravitch liked Dominique and went to Atlanta and showed some things also
The GOAT conversation was unique because everyone had Bird/Magic tied at #1, but recognized Jordan would take over as soon as they retired. I think most ppl had it like this:
1. Bird/Magic
2. MJ
3. Bill Russel
4. Kareem
5. Wilt
The 1986 Celtics were among the greatest championship teams of all time. They were operating on a level so high, the rest of the league just paled by comparison that year. There are plenty of highlight collections from that team here on UA-cam...find them and you will see true basketball greatness.
Watching Larry score 60 in the game against the Hawks was amazing. Seeing the Hawks bench cheering him on during it (which they got fined for) was amazing. Get the interview where Dominique tells the story. Nuts.
Bird would tell you what he was going to do, where he was going to do it from and then do it! All while talking trash to the player, the bench and the coach...#Legend
You just called his shot 'ugly'? First time in 40 years I've heard that. The reality is, the form on Bird's jump shot is perfection in motion. A style that many should emulate and many have.
Also, when watching these videos remember that players were allowed to play DEFENSE back then.
I think a majority of people back then kinda saw Bird and Magic in their own tier, but it was no secret that Jordan was gonna take the game to a whole other level.... And we only got to see a healthy Bird for a few seasons. He badly hurt his back in 1984 fixing his parents driveway and had to have a doctor make adjustments to his back before every game from I believe 1986 til retirement. I remember him saying he should've retired after the '86 season because he could barely walk after games. And he still won the MVP from '84-86 despite this. It's what amazes me the most about Bird...tough as they come.
Nice reaction video....in his "prime" Larry Bird was the best player in the NBA in the 80's.
Before all of his injuries (bone spurs in his heels, bad back), Larry was nearly unstoppable.
"If you put all of us in a room -- Magic, Jordan, myself and Bird -- Bird would probably be the guy who walks out of the room at the end of the day," says Isiah Thomas on ESPN Classic's SportsCentury series.
Bird was the most inventive passer ever.
Yep- and comparing his passing to Lebron is almost disrespectful to the Bird Man - Lebron wasn't in Larry's league as a passer.
Lebron's passes aren't the same level as Magic and Larry. Magic was flashy and Larry's was very improvised. Lebrons is good, don't get me wrong but nowhere near as smooth.
Bird was a master mind. He played basketball like they play chess
Everybody knew the torch of greatness was passed to Jordon before the retirement of Magic and Bird. However, I've never liked the GOAT arguments. There are too many great players who, at a particular moment in time, had a unique style and skill unlike anything previously seen. And they brought great joy to those who were there to watch them. 😊
This is my attitude going forward. There are athletes today doing amazing, never-before seen things in all sports. Enjoy the moment!
This is a great attitude!
You have to understand when Bird and Magic came to the league they went to teams in need. 78/79 season Boston 29W-53 L, 79/80 season Larry's first year They were 61W-21L regular season. 78/79 for LA 47W- 35L, Magic Joins the team LA goes 60W, 22L. These 2 players saved the NBA. They stoked a rivalry that fired up interest and played for the heart of the game.
when Bird retired, he was arguably the GOAT. was between he and and Kareem, once MJ hit his 3peat, he was being considered the GOAT. As it is, Bird is still no. 2 in my book.
I kind of agree with you but something people do mistakenly is they always leave Wilt Chamberlain out of discussion really there's no discussion Wilt Chamberlain is the greatest of all time if you look at his stats they make everybody else's stats look like a joke. And I understand there was a different time back then different teams less games and all that but Wilt Chamberlain was absolutely dominant beyond any other description
For different reasons Jordan and Bird both have claims on being the GOAT. People usually give it to Jordan but I have a hard time doing that considering Bird is 6-0 vs Jordan in the playoffs, sweeping him twice. Head to head Bird got the better of Jordan for years. I think Jordan gets more GOAT talk because he was so much more athletic and his highlights are flashier. A longer career definitely helped as well.
It’s nice to see you appreciate great passing!
You’d probably really love Bird’s 50 greatest assist mix. ;)
With today's soft defense and the amount of threes they take, Bird would dominate. not to mention he played his entire career with a shattered finger on his shooting hand and he even said he was a better shooter before that happened. And with his back issues later. With today's medical advances he wouldve been healthier
The greatest ever. More end of time, game winning shots than anyone. Dropped 47 on Portland left handed! When asked by reporters why he used only his left hand, he said, I'm saving my right hand for LA, we play them tomorrow night! Won 3 MVPs during the greatest era of players. 3 3 point contest in a row , one while wearing his warm up stuff! Played the last 6 years with a broken back and blown Achilles tendon! Because of his back, they took a stationary bike to all games. Larry had to ride it, 1-2 hours before each game, to loosen his back, up!! Was the first 50/40/90 guy. When playing the bulls in conference finals, swept them! As a rookie, on third day of camp, came out and told reporters, this league is nothing, I will dominate this league! Worthy said, he would rather guard Jordan than Bird! Made 2 shots on purpose from behind the backboard! Got the whole Atlanta bench in trouble, for his shooting display against them. When the rockets had the Twin Towers, they should have won 2 titles. Bird and the Celtics, stopped them! He's the goat. Maybe the only better player was pistol Pete, but he just burnt out too soon, plus born with a unusually small heart pump side. He once told an opposing player who has a good first half against him, " are ur parents here, cuz ur not gonna want them to see, what I'm about to do to you!" So Bird drops 27 on him in the second half, and also shut him down. He tells the guy after the game, " that was for ur mom!" Ice cold! He played during an era, when there was no hack a Shaq foul, no finger hand elbow or body check fouls. And when centers and power forwards would break ur bones and punish you, if you went inside!
Patrick Ewing tells the story of going home after his first season and talking to his friends about Bird. He relates them talking about him being slow and not able to jump. Ewing told them he didn't know who they thought they were talking about, but Larry Bird was an absolute monster to play against.
Ewing said "This man is great!"
"He was demolishing Everyone".
Young people who have become accustomed to multiple televised NBA games every week and the extremely wealthy players in those games should say a sincere thank you to Larry Bird and Magic Johnson for saving the league. Pro basketball was a dying sport. The basketball world was all about college ball. Heck, Chamberlin's 100 point game isn't even recorded. Most pro games were tape delayed so you watched hours or days after they occurred. And then along came Larry and Magic.
so many ppl only saw Bird past his prime. that "steal by Bird" & the pass that beat the Pistons is legit best play ever
For those that think Larry Bird was not as good as he really was. This comment is for those whom never had the chance to see him play.
At that time it was not about the individuals stats it was about the win. But if you need some stats here you go:
Here are some of Larry Bird's notable career achievements and statistics:
Three-time NBA champion (1981, 1984, 1986); Two-time NBA Finals MVP (1984, 1986); Three-time NBA MVP (1984-86); 12-time NBA All-Star (1980-88, 1990-92); Nine-time All-NBA First Team (1980-88);
All-NBA Second Team (1990); Three-time All-NBA Defensive Second Team (1982-84); NBA Rookie of the Year (1980); NBA All-Rookie Team (1980); Three-time NBA Three-Point Contest champion (1986-88);
Career-high in points: 60 (March 12, 1985) -- tied for franchise record with Jayson Tatum; Named NBA Coach of the Year (1998); and Named NBA Executive of the Year (2012).
Larry Bird, was the first player to accomplish the 50-40-90 achievement, and one of two players to achieve the feat in multiple seasons.
Career averages:
24.3 points per game
10.0 rebounds per game
6.3 assists per game
88.6% free throw percentage
49.6% field goal percentage
37.6% 3-point percentage
Now we can't forget that Bird famously played with two injured ankles and a notoriously cranky back that forced him to lay down on the floor during practice breaks. He li
Young man Bird won 3 straight MVPs. I seen him play and yes Luka reminds me of him. You don’t have to be an ultra athlete to play ball. Just gotta know how to play.
Yeah, slightly bigger and more ruthless Luka is a solid comp.
@@michaelearl6765 Jokic is a decent comparison as well. Neither him or Luka can shoot like Bird tho.
Bring Bird from 1986 with the smash mouth style league he played into the ticky tack league of today, hed dominate.
Hed rain 3s, get on the line an insane amount of times and have a much longer career with better trainers n medical.
Dont ever 4get Jordan,Bird and Magic got beat up on the court and still dominated
At 6’9” and 220 playing SF he was the best shooter in the league.
Bird would light up anyone in the current NBA. Fundamentals and a great feel for the moment. Todays players are just.. They just don't want it as much, sort of like anything these days. Blame it on participation trophies. Still just boils down to fundamentals.
I am old but not Larry bird old I watched mj but by the time I watched bird his back was out playing for the 1992Olympic team. Older cats will tell me this dude was ridiculous, I used to think maybe he was the great white hype but nah this dude was doing it against the best. he was actually lowkey Athletic
He's still & will always be the greatest
It was a much more physical game back then. When Bird started, games were tape delayed, on back channels, very rarely national tv. I was fortunate that I am from Mass, lived in Boston in the early 80's. even got to go to 1 game in 86 to see him play. I have heard people say Tatum is a top 5-10 player, he can't do 1/2 of what Bird could do.
Damn, putting Tatum in the same sentence with Bird is such an insult to Bird. Bird and Magic were the face of the league in the 80s. Tatum's just an all-star player.
You need to watch the one where all the guys talk about him and his trash talking.
I watched the Celtics every Saturday on CBS Brent Mussberger and Tommy Heinson called them all.
Never been a Celtics fan but admired their legacy and the 'Hick From French Lick' is in my Top 5 ...EASY!...It started when I watched him that 79 season literally carry Indiana State by himself .....the man was genius like few others in any sport....EVER!
There was a time when Bird was considered the best ever, mainly during the mid 80's. By the end of his career, it was between him and Magic, though Kareem was also in the conversation to a lesser degree. Then when they retired and Jordan took over, pundits gravitated toward Jordan.
David Stern rode Bird vs Magic then he rode MJ.
Nike took Over.
Regarding Bird's physique: Charles Barkley once said that Bird not being really athletic was God's way of balancing the world.
The goat conversation didn’t really start until Jordan retired...when Larry played, the talk was the best in the world. He fractured his cheekbone in 91 playoffs
There’s a clip somewhere during a game where the TV announcer says, “One way or another, Bird KILLS you.” And that’s the thing about Bird. He can score you to death or he can pass you to death and he doesn’t give a damn which one it is.
THREE-POINT LINE: The three-point line has
been shortened from its previous distance of 22 feet in the corners
extending to 23 feet 9 inches at the top of the key, to a uniform
distance of 22 feet all around the basket. Also, players fouled while in
the act of shooting a three-point attempt shall get three free throws
instead of two
Thanks for mentioning the 3 free throws. I was starting to think I had imagined it happening back then.
Charles Barkley said "Larry Bird couldnt run or jump. The only thing he can do is play basketball better than everyone else."
Larry Bird is Mr Basketball, he's the legend.
Bird’s passing was far superior to Lebron’s. Reggie Miller when comparing the two stated it as a matter of fact. Also, Reggie said he would take Bird over Lebron when both were 30.
Remember, back in the 80’s they played tough as hell and fouls weren’t called for nothing like they are now
I love when reactors are surprised that Bird could dunk...he was 6'9". He could dunk he just didn't see a need to most of the time...got I miss 1980's NBA!
He knew that he needed ankle surgery or would in the future when he quit dunking. All the tall guys ankles get beat up trying to change directions on a dime. Larry was likely trying to save his ankles.
To be honest, Larry would probably be the best player in the NBA today. I am not someone who believes 80s and 90s players were better than players today. I think the best era was the 2000s cause that was when players were as athletic as today but the game was still super physical and all the best players had to score at all 3 levels whereas today they just need 3s and layups. Larry is different tho. He was 6 foot 9 inch sharpshooter who was a fantastic passer and a basketball genius. He averaged 10 rebounds per game in a very physical era when guys like Kareem, Moses, Olajuwon, Malone, Sampson, etc. were all around (a.k.a. the Golden Age of Centers). He is a mismatch on literally everyone and would probably be something like Jokic with even better athleticism, shooting, passing, and defense. He is probably too slow for today's SFs, but would be unbelievable as an undersized 4 or 5 and probably the best player in the league.
Also, the pre-Jordan GOAT debate was such a mess because statistics weren't nearly as advanced and everyone's eye test was different.
Bird easily top 10 all time, could be argued top 5.
I got him top 5. He set the Bar high in my opinion even with a short career. If he lasted longer he’d probably be GOAT!
@@J34xalpha_KING I think I got him 6-8 range, sucks his back went out.
I don't recall us passing around GOAT status freely among contemporaries back then like we do now. But if we did, Bird would have been there.
I watched Jordan's whole career I watched Magic's whole career I used to love the NBA in the '80s in the 90s even to the mid-2000s but the last 10 years have been pretty trash for me. It's just so weak I can barely bring myself to watch a whole game other than the Celtics LOL it's just not even fun to watch anymore there's no positions, it just sucks LOL
I watched Larry Bird's whole career(born in 1978 in Boston) he is most definitely better than LeBron. In fact LeBron may not even be top 10 all time. I say that because everybody I rank in my top 10 played in an era where the players were actually allowed to play physical style basketball and defense. LeBron never ever had to worry about getting hurt by another player ,that was a reality for every player I rank in the top 10 all time. LeBron never plays hurt LeBron has load management LeBron's NBA is all three points and dunks it's a positionless game where anybody can play any position and it doesn't even matter. Today's game is garbage compared to what it used to be if they bring a little physicality back into the game I might change my mind but until I see it for myself today's NBA is trash.
So back to my point LOL Larry Bird won three MVPs in a row in the mid 80s which might be the toughest era in NBA history if you think Nicola jokic put on a show imagine what bird would have done he could have won five NBA MVPs in a row... maybe.... Lol
I'm now understand because you're only 23 years old and you've never actually seen the NBA when it was a real man sport your opinions in my mind a valid for the extent of your knowledge good videos bro I hope someday you become a die hard Celtics fan take care man
Amen!!!!!
Amen!