The legend of Larry Bird lives on even today almost as crisply as if it was only a day old. Perhaps Bird’s name has become such an important part of NBA history due to his rivalry with Magic Johnson. The league had never seen the sort of rivalry these two showed. It quite literally changed the NBA for the better.
But, do not mistake his legend, as being only relevant because of his bond with Johnson. For Larry Bird was a phenom even Michael Jordan acknowledged as the greatest Small Forward to ever play.
In fact, Bird was aware of his own excellence. A thing that led him to go after opponents and give them his best smack talk. But the one event when Larry’s smack talk deserved to become a thing of legend happened in a game between the Celtics and the Pacers.
Larry Bird promised to give the Pacers’ rookie a Christmas gift
When The Game Was Ours, a book co-authored by Larry and Magic, detailed the legendary trash-talking scenes of Bird’s career. But the most interesting story involved a really talented Pacers’ rookie.
When Chuck Person visited Boston Garden for the first time in his career, he had no idea what was in wait for him. He definitely did not anticipate Larry Bird walking up to him and promising him a gift for Christmas which was only a week away.
Unfortunately, Person wasn’t aware of the brutality in Larry’s game. He had no idea how often Bird baited opponents with his words and then humiliated them during games. Once the game started, Larry dribbled in front of the Pacers’ bench, shot a gorgeous three, and then taunted Person.
‘When The Game Was Ours’ revealed:
“Bird’s habit of baiting his opponents was quickly becoming part of NBA lore. During Indiana Pacers forward Chuck Person’s rookie season, his team traveled to Boston Garden a week before Christmas, and Bird was waiting with a holiday greeting. “I’ve got a present for you,” Bird told Person as he walked past him before the game. Late in the second half, Bird ambled up the court and drilled a three-pointer right in front of the Pacers’ bench, where Person happened to be sitting. “Merry f——ing Christmas,” said Bird.”
Bird schooled Indiana in that game
The game in question was held on December 17th, 1986. The Celtics’ 3-time MVP, who was just 30 then, was at the peak of his career. He had made a name for being one of the most menacing players on the court. So, Pacers were more than likely preparing beforehand to contain Larry.
However, once the game started, nothing worked for Indiana. Larry Bird scored 34 points in the game and carried his team to victory. Interestingly, Larry made just 1 of his 5 attempts from beyond the three-point line that day. Unfortunately. Person paid the brunt of that shot.
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