Larry Bird reveals why Michael Jordan was PLAYOFF CHOKER and had embarrassing record for first 6 seasons of NBA career

Larry Bird dominated the NBA during the 1980s.

Larry Bird reveals why Michael Jordan was PLAYOFF CHOKER and had embarrassing record for first 6 seasons of NBA career

Larry Joe Bird, widely hailed as one of the greatest basketball players in NBA history, achieved a unique feat. Throughout his 13 seasons with the NBA, primarily with the Boston Celtics, he secured three championships. Notably, he remains the sole individual in NBA history to attain distinctions such as Rookie of the Year, MVP, Finals MVP, All-Star MVP, Coach of the Year, and Executive of the Year.

In the 1986 playoffs, as Michael Jordan faced Larry Bird and his star-studded team during Jordan’s sophomore year, he showcased fearlessness. Despite the series concluding in defeat for Jordan and the Bulls, Bird was notably impressed. This admiration stemmed from Jordan’s remarkable performance in game 2, where he set a playoff record by scoring 63 points.

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Impressed by these performances, Larry Bird admired Michael Jordan. Jordan’s remarkable average of 43.7 points in the series, compared to Bird’s 28.3 points, stood out. Despite Michael Jordan’s early years marked by challenges and a perceived focus on individual success over team victory, an encounter during the 1986 playoffs provided Bird with insight. Consequently, Bird came to understand the reasons behind Jordan’s approach.

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Early on, people were saying Michael didn't have a team mentality. That was because he didn't have a team.

Currently serving as a consultant for the Indiana Pacers, Larry Bird brings a wealth of experience. Notably, he coached the Pacers in 1997, guiding them to a seven-game showdown against the Chicago Bulls in the Eastern Conference Finals. Following this impressive feat, Bird earned recognition as Coach of the Year.

[related_section] “That was God disguised as Michael Jordan” – When Larry Bird was SHELLSHOCKED after Bulls legend dropped NBA Playoff record 63 points [/related_section]

Larry Bird’s legacy examined

Hailing from French Lick, Indiana, Larry Bird, affectionately nicknamed “the Hick from French Lick,” emerged as a local basketball star and a highly sought-after recruit. Selected as the sixth overall pick in the 1978 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics, Bird initially showcased his skills at Indiana State University. During the 1978-79 season, he led the team to an undefeated regular season.

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Larry Bird against Magic Johnson (via X)

Larry Bird’s enduring rivalry with Magic Johnson, who excelled at Michigan State University, began with Indiana State University’s defeat by Magic’s team. This decade-long competition extended into the revived Celtics-Lakers rivalry, where Bird and Magic faced off three times in the NBA Finals. While Bird emerged victorious in 1984, Magic gained the upper hand, defeating Bird twice in 1985 and 1987, creating a compelling chapter in basketball history.

Voted onto the NBA’s 50th Anniversary All-Time team and inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Larry Bird’s legacy is firmly established. Known for his versatility, he adeptly played both small and power-forward positions. Bird’s illustrious career with the Boston Celtics included winning three NBA championships, further solidifying his impact on the game.

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