Meet Larry Bird, ‘The Hick from French Lick’ Who Became an NBA Legend

Larry Bird, a name synonymous with clutch plays, basketball genius, and an unmatched competitive spirit, wasn’t born with a silver hoop. His journey from a small town in Indiana to NBA royalty is a testament to hard work, an unorthodox style, and an insatiable hunger for victory.

His Early Life, Education, and College Career

Larry Joe Bird, born on December 7, 1956, in West Baden Springs, Indiana, is an American basketball icon. His parents, Georgia Bird and Claude Joseph “Joe” Bird, raised him in the small town of French Lick. Larry’s upbringing was modest, but his passion for basketball burned brightly from an early age.

Bird attended Springs Valley High School in French Lick, where he honed his skills on the court. His towering height of 6 feet 9 inches made him stand out, and he quickly became a local basketball sensation. Despite his talent, Bird initially committed to Indiana University, a powerhouse program. However, homesickness and a clash with the demanding coach Bob Knight led him to Indiana State University.

At Indiana State, Bird blossomed. He wasn’t the most athletic player, but his basketball IQ, shooting prowess (including his unorthodox free throw technique), and court vision were unmatched.

He led the Sycamores on an improbable run to the 1979 NCAA championship game, facing Magic Johnson’s Michigan State Spartans in a clash that would define an era. His rivalry with Michigan State’s Magic Johnson during that championship season became legendary.

His Professional Career, and Rivalry With Magic Johnson

Despite not winning the championship, Bird’s brilliance caught the eye of the Boston Celtics. They drafted him in 1978, and after a one-year deferral to honor a commitment to Indiana State, Bird arrived in Boston in 1979. This marked the beginning of a glorious era for the Celtics and the NBA.

In 1979, Bird entered the NBA as the sixth overall pick by the Boston Celtics. His arrival transformed the franchise. Bird’s combination of shooting, passing, and basketball IQ elevated the Celtics to new heights.

Bird’s arrival coincided with the rise of Magic Johnson, the flashy point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers. Their rivalry, a battle of contrasting styles – Bird’s efficiency versus Magic’s dazzling showmanship – revitalized the NBA, bringing back fans and national attention. The two teams met in the NBA Finals three times in the 1980s, with the Celtics winning in 1981, 1984, and 1986, with Bird claiming Finals MVP honors in the latter two.

Bird’s individual accolades were equally impressive. He was a 12-time All-Star, a three-time NBA Most Valuable Player (1984-1986), and a two-time NBA Finals MVP. Alongside Kevin McHale and Robert Parish, they formed a legendary frontcourt, dominating the league with their unselfish play and basketball brilliance.

His Coaching and Executive Career

Forced into retirement in 1992 due to back problems, Bird didn’t stray far from basketball. He donned the coaching hat for his beloved Indiana Pacers, leading them to the NBA Finals in 2000.

Bird served as the head coach of the Indiana Pacers. His leadership and strategic acumen earned him the NBA Coach of the Year award in 1998.

After a successful coaching stint, Bird transitioned to the front office, where his basketball acumen continued to shine. As President of Basketball Operations for the Pacers, he built a team known for its defensive prowess, reaching the Eastern Conference Finals in 2013. In 2012, he was named NBA Executive of the Year.

His Family, Personal Life, and Facts: Parents, Wife, Children, Grandchildren, Age, Height, Jersey Number, and Rings

Bird’s family includes his siblings Eddie, Jeff, Linda, Mark, and Mike. His parents, Georgia and Joe, instilled in him the values of hard work and determination.

Larry Bird prefers his life off the court to be private.  He married Janet Condra in 1989, and they have a daughter, Mariah, and a son, Connor. Bird is a devoted family man and takes immense pride in his children’s achievements.

Bird wore the iconic No. 33 jersey for the Celtics, a number now retired in his honor. As of 2024, he is 67 years old, having been born on December 7, 1956.  Other stats include:

• NBA Championships: 3 (1981, 1984, 1986)
• NBA Finals MVP Awards: 2 (1984, 1986)
• NBA Most Valuable Player Awards: 3 (1984-1986)

His Net Worth

As of 2024, Larry Bird’s net worth is estimated at approximately $75 million. Bird’s net worth reflects his immense impact on the game. His earnings as a player, coach, and executive have contributed to his financial success.