Lebron Fan Reacts To Larry Bird Mixtape

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  • čas přidán 5. 07. 2023
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Komentáře • 7K

  • @Christoph5455
    @Christoph5455 Před 10 měsíci +869

    Polo, hats off to you! Nice assessment! I agree that MJ is and probably always will be the greatest, but a Cleveland native giving props to Larry over LeBron?! I'm shocked, and hope they let you back into Cleveland bro, lol!

    • @poloreacts27
      @poloreacts27  Před 10 měsíci +162

      😂😂😂 I ain’t going back it’s a war zone

    • @epic103
      @epic103 Před 10 měsíci +93

      @@poloreacts27 - you have to react to Bird's 60pt game, it's insane. He hits from everywhere. It's one of the greatest shooting displays of all time.

    • @d.lawrence8059
      @d.lawrence8059 Před 10 měsíci +46

      @@epic103 Larry was unmatched on every level when he played. All of us here in Boston have been blessed with our NE teams over the years! What a run we've had!!

    • @epic103
      @epic103 Před 10 měsíci +32

      @@d.lawrence8059 - I'm from that area, I know exactly. I've been to the old Boston Garden a few times, and Bird will always be my favorite player. Cheers

    • @fyoutube4226
      @fyoutube4226 Před 10 měsíci +62

      If Bird and James played on the same team. James would have had to switch to the four. This really isn't close. Bird dominated when the NBA was a man's league. James. like every other modern player plays in the WNBA 2. It's two totally different leagues.

  • @glockensig
    @glockensig Před 10 měsíci +1277

    HoF coach Pat Riley said about Bird - “if I had to pick one player to take a shot to save a game, I'd pick Michael Jordan. If I had to pick one player to take a shot to save my life… I'd pick Larry Bird.”

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci +27

      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Jokic: 20.2 PPG / 10.5 RPG / 6.6 APG / 1.2 SPG / 0.7 BPG = 39.2
      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Curry: 24.6 PPG / 4.6 RPG / 6.5 APG / 1.6 SPG / 0.2 BPG = 37.3

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci +116

      When it mattered most...Most game-winners (last minute) of All-Time:
      #1) Kobe = 26 (in 1346 games)
      #2) Jordan = 25 (in 1072 games)
      #3) Bird. = 24 (in 897 games)
      #4) LeBron = 19 (in 1366 games)
      ...
      However, when it came to overall game-winners ratio per games played, here are the best of All-Time:
      #1) Bird = 2.67
      #2) Jordan = 2.33

      #3) Kobe 1.93
      ...
      ** LeBron is NOT even in the Top 10

    • @JJG5150
      @JJG5150 Před 9 měsíci +10

      Well stated!

    • @squanchy2925
      @squanchy2925 Před 9 měsíci +18

      @@FreedomFighter2112 Comparing averages across positions and eras like this doesn't paint an accurate picture.

    • @zombievikinggaming4258
      @zombievikinggaming4258 Před 9 měsíci +34

      ​@@squanchy2925They use whatever stats they like to denigrate players like Bird

  • @dochudson9393
    @dochudson9393 Před 3 měsíci +184

    The man's nickname is "Legend" AND HE'S STILL UNDERRATED

    • @billsharp9839
      @billsharp9839 Před měsícem +3

      I remember my father who loved the Bob Cousy Celtics saying Bird was the one of the greatest he had ever seen. Passing, clutch shooting and heart of a lion.

  • @danjackson1016
    @danjackson1016 Před 3 měsíci +94

    People forget how strong the competition was when Larry was doing his thing. Legends of the game all over the place.

    • @bradfordbertoli2829
      @bradfordbertoli2829 Před 3 měsíci +16

      Bird played when the entire Dream Team was in the league. Bird was the $HIT!

    • @riffgroove
      @riffgroove Před 2 měsíci +2

      Right?
      Look who else was in the league when Larry won MVP three years in a row.

    • @drummer8by2
      @drummer8by2 Před 15 dny +4

      Dr J, Kareem, Magic, Worthy, Jordan, Bernard King, Dominique Wilkins, Clyde the Glide, A young Reggie, Pippen, the Mailman, Ewing, Stockton, Gary Payton,... Bird did it against the best, period!!🎉

    • @adamgordon3990
      @adamgordon3990 Před dnem

      Before the Celtics even got to those finals against the Lakers, they had to get through epic matchups against Dr. J and the 76'ers.

  • @patrickreynolds9853
    @patrickreynolds9853 Před 3 měsíci +54

    Remember this also … Bird played his entire career with a screwed up finger on his shooting hand. You can see it in the clip where he held his finger up after winning the 3 point contest. Also …nhalf his career he played with an extremely bad back. So bad that at times he would check into a hospital wherever they were playing the night before a game and stay in traction the entire night to straighten his back out so he could play the next day. His last 3 years he laid on the floor when he was t playing because sitting g made his back hurt.
    The game where he hit his face on the floor and broke his cheek bone he got a concussion. Ever had a concussion? Massive headache and double vision galore. Bird came out and played through that headache AND DOUBLE VISION!!! And still made shot after shot … while being double teamed.
    The guy was just a complete machine!!! Rarely did anything take him off his game. Even more rarely did he allow an injury to sideline him.
    Everyone says that Bird can’t be in the “goat debate” because he wasn’t fast or super athletic …Mia say bullshit! Bird had 2 things that beat super athleticism every time …the best basketball mind the sport has ever seen and the most efficient game ever. Bird wasted no movement. Bird wasted very few shots. Bird was able to pass the ball in ways that have never been reproduced. If you watch the review about his passing you can see examples of him spinning the ball and making it curve around defenders to a teammate.
    Magic was right when he said there would never be another Bird!!!!!

    • @jaymax6127
      @jaymax6127 Před měsícem +4

      Well said!! Bird > LBJ

    • @magdalenarangel53
      @magdalenarangel53 Před 15 dny +2

      Every single word, truth. The Legend, The GOAT. ♥️🏀♥️

  • @lancevaughn432
    @lancevaughn432 Před 10 měsíci +908

    I’m 65 Laker fan, grew up watching Chamberlain, West, Baylor / Kareem, Magic, Worthy. Magic and Bird save the league. Larry Bird, hate and respected him. Bird was the smartest and most ruthless player in the league.

    • @darinmetzger9346
      @darinmetzger9346 Před 10 měsíci +43

      Yes. Ruthless. Perfect word👍🙏

    • @Mitsoxfan
      @Mitsoxfan Před 10 měsíci +25

      LeBron is amazing. So is Kobe. We don't have to say who is the 'best'. My favorite player is Bird. Best of all time, MJ. Who I'd want to helm my team, Kobe. Who I'd want at their prime for 15 years? Maybe LeBron. Who in their era was the absolute best, Bill Russell. I mean, so many great players.

    • @tyronevaldez-kruger5313
      @tyronevaldez-kruger5313 Před 10 měsíci +11

      ​@@darinmetzger9346 Ruthless is probably the word that separates Bird and Joker but both have a lot in common. Even off basketball. Bird loves cutting grass and Joker horses

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci +12

      In the past 50 years, here are the highest Total Career Avg Stat Points (PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      #1) Jordan = 44.7
      #2) LeBron = 44.4
      #3) Bird = 43.1
      #4) Kareem = 42.9
      #5) Magic = 40.2
      #6) Durant = 40.1
      ... many other players
      #24) Curry = 37.3

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci +4

      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Jokic: 20.2 PPG / 10.5 RPG / 6.6 APG / 1.2 SPG / 0.7 BPG = 39.2
      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Curry: 24.6 PPG / 4.6 RPG / 6.5 APG / 1.6 SPG / 0.2 BPG = 37.3

  • @kathieovercash8414
    @kathieovercash8414 Před 10 měsíci +663

    You missed them saying when he came back out of the locker room that his right cheek was fractured. He finished the 3rd quarter and played the entire fourth quarter and they won. After the game he went to the hospital where they had to drill a hole in his face to insert a tool to pull the arch back into position. He also had a concussion. There is a video of the 5 times he was hurt and another highlighting 4 times. He played with pure heart because his back got so bad that when they traveled on commercial flights he had to lay in the floor of the plane. It was sad he only got to play 13 years.

    • @shadow7796
      @shadow7796 Před 10 měsíci +81

      Alot of reactors miss that.

    • @katyareads221
      @katyareads221 Před 10 měsíci +76

      A quote of Larry Bird is "It makes me sick when I see a guy just watch a ball go out of bounds."....

    • @delonhinrichs3974
      @delonhinrichs3974 Před 10 měsíci

      Without bird or magic the NBA would be nothing, basketball players today are sissies spoiled money hungry brats. 😊 They say that larry bird couldn't play in the NBA . Bird would have donated today's players. Who would have stopped him 3 point plays can't touch another bird would have had a blast today it would be like a practice to him, playing in today soft NBA what bird could have done

    • @meredithchandler73
      @meredithchandler73 Před 10 měsíci +104

      I think he wasn’t listening when they said Larry told people he was going to play left-handed either.

    • @delonhinrichs3974
      @delonhinrichs3974 Před 10 měsíci +42

      @@meredithchandler73 he did not hear either one of them

  • @brianorzel1873
    @brianorzel1873 Před 3 měsíci +14

    Celtics fast breaks back in the 80's were so much fun. Larry's passes were amazing, made possible by a bunch of teammates who had great hands and were always ready to catch that unexpected pass. The current NBA isn't quite the same.

  • @oldtimeradiogonevideo7248
    @oldtimeradiogonevideo7248 Před měsícem +12

    I've posted this a number of times, I save it for objective analysis on Bird.
    Bird had an amazing BB IQ, could pull off amazing passes, steals, dinks and dunks. His situational awareness, knowing where everyone is, or going to be was unbelievable.
    I'm convinced he even knew where all the popcorn vendors were in the stadium.
    I agree wholeheartedly that "Heart" takes a good player and makes them a great player.
    I enjoyed listening to your commentary. Your personal history adds a stronger dimension to your reporting.
    Thank you for sharing this story.

    • @terrycain3843
      @terrycain3843 Před 9 dny +1

      You forgot how he got into the minds of his opponents and could tell them what he was going to do before he did it.😂

  • @thejackofalldans786
    @thejackofalldans786 Před 4 měsíci +132

    notice in the clip where the players on the bench are going crazy? thats the OTHER TEAM, pure respect

    • @The_AdventurousRealtor
      @The_AdventurousRealtor Před 2 měsíci +8

      That was an amazing game! I think it was Doc Rivers saying the Hawks on the bench (Cliff Levingston) were giving each other high fives because Bird was hitting everything (60 point game)!! Even the Hawks announcers admitted it was the greatest shooting exhibition they had seen. Unfortunately for the Hawks, their coach was pissed and they paid the price after the game.

    • @eddieblair9751
      @eddieblair9751 Před 2 měsíci +4

      lol.. that when he put up 60 points on Atlanta Hawks! Those guys received fines after the game, but damn I would have had to cheer too!

    • @oldtimeradiogonevideo7248
      @oldtimeradiogonevideo7248 Před měsícem

      I believe that was the play he told the defender he was going to shoot from this spot, land and come down, get bumped by you into the statistician, bounce the ball off the backboard and in.

    • @janalaine
      @janalaine Před měsícem +2

      those players all got fined and they still laugh about it

    • @jackmcginley7658
      @jackmcginley7658 Před měsícem +1

      Doc Rivers said that when they watched film the next day, Coach Fratello showed the clip of them on the bench and replayed it 22 times before showing anything else, with a "Really?" look on his face.

  • @hopeanyastroud9573
    @hopeanyastroud9573 Před 10 měsíci +935

    Larry is the GOAT, I feel sorry for the people who didn't get to see him play live.

    • @truthseeker6532
      @truthseeker6532 Před 10 měsíci +16

      DANG RIGHT!!!!!

    • @donolinger6904
      @donolinger6904 Před 10 měsíci +8

      Me too.

    • @mikemurray726
      @mikemurray726 Před 10 měsíci +46

      Him or M.J. real talk. Lebron does not make discussion if your 40 plus.

    • @robinmahan8814
      @robinmahan8814 Před 10 měsíci +9

      Absolutely. Tweet Tweet....take a seat. Lol

    • @sliglusamelius8578
      @sliglusamelius8578 Před 10 měsíci +14

      Nah, Michael Jordan is the GOAT. Larry Bird was great, top 10 for sure.

  • @RyanHennessy-yt8zn
    @RyanHennessy-yt8zn Před 3 měsíci +37

    I am from Boston and grew up less than a mile from the Old Boston garden. What a childhood. I actually worked there doing co sessions running up and down the stairs yelling popcorn and peanuts. It was a pleasure watching Larry legend and yet so humble off the court. It was great to see guys like Magic embrace him as a friend in a league of all black superstars.

    • @dookiepuddle
      @dookiepuddle Před měsícem

      What a time, I wanted a piece of that floor. Sadly I was there when Reggie Lewis collapsed 😢.

  • @mikegallagher1874
    @mikegallagher1874 Před 3 měsíci +14

    He's was called Larry Legend for a reason !! The man rose to the moment at the biggest moments

  • @hairball7529
    @hairball7529 Před 10 měsíci +104

    Birds passing is what puts me in awe

    • @markherring3513
      @markherring3513 Před 4 měsíci +2

      A great pass is sweet AF. I enjoy the passes more than the shots.

    • @natamyer1500
      @natamyer1500 Před 2 měsíci +2

      That and his ability he had to juke out an opponent and take them off their game.

    • @jbideastoo
      @jbideastoo Před měsícem

      The speed that he reads the position of his teammates and can bump the ball to them with a flick is incredible.

    • @pablopicasso3122
      @pablopicasso3122 Před 28 dny

      One would expect certain top level athletes that have extremely good mind/body connections to be surgical with their shots. But Larry passes to moving players as if they’ve always been there. I can’t imagine what it was like to play with someone like that, someone who could find you in space like that when literally no one you ever played with before had been able to do that.

  • @teeess6536
    @teeess6536 Před 6 měsíci +147

    I love that more people are learning just how special Larry Bird was, that man was incredible

  • @chrisramsey9333
    @chrisramsey9333 Před měsícem +5

    I watched most of this when it happened and this is probably the 20th time watching highlights. Never gets old .

  • @troutymctrouttrout3809
    @troutymctrouttrout3809 Před 4 měsíci +21

    Hey man, loved this reaction video. You hit it on the head - Larry Bird was a killer. I'll never forget a game from when I was about 7 or 8 yrs. old. Prime Time Lakers where my team and they were up by like 28 points going into the 4th. Larry bird came on the court for that last Q and there was this look in his eyes like he got taken over by a demon. He ran absolutely rough-shod over the Lakers and the Celtics won and that game still stings to this day! Only in retrospect can I admire the guy. One of the all time legends.

  • @mahante
    @mahante Před 10 měsíci +243

    Bird was not just a killer, he was a stone cold assassin. He broke you down physically and mentally. He did this dealing with a really bad back injury that he played through the pain for 8 years. There is a reason his nickname is Larry Legend.

    • @christopherkenyon7112
      @christopherkenyon7112 Před 7 měsíci

      Jordan and Bird were serial killers on the court . Best era in the NBA was the 80’s, and the 90’s.

    • @adamgordon3990
      @adamgordon3990 Před dnem

      And he f'd up his back hauling gravel to build a new driveway at his mother's house over the summer, instead of just paying a contractor to do it. Stupid for a superstar athlete to injure themselves like that, but he was blue collar to the bone.

  • @bevkonde9028
    @bevkonde9028 Před 10 měsíci +157

    I’ve always said that Larry was not the highest jumper or the fastest runner, but he knew WHEN to jump and WHERE to run better than any player ever!

    • @msw8966
      @msw8966 Před 10 měsíci +14

      His basketball IQ is off the charts!

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci +4

      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Jokic: 20.2 PPG / 10.5 RPG / 6.6 APG / 1.2 SPG / 0.7 BPG = 39.2
      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Curry: 24.6 PPG / 4.6 RPG / 6.5 APG / 1.6 SPG / 0.2 BPG = 37.3

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci +5

      When it mattered most...Most game-winners (last minute) of All-Time:
      #1) Kobe = 26 (in 1346 games)
      #2) Jordan = 25 (in 1072 games)
      #3) Bird. = 24 (in 897 games)
      #4) LeBron = 19 (in 1366 games)
      ...
      However, when it came to overall game-winners ratio per games played, here are the best of All-Time:
      #1) Bird = 2.67
      #2) Jordan = 2.33

      #3) Kobe 1.93
      ...
      ** LeBron is NOT even in the Top 10

    • @bigmike2464
      @bigmike2464 Před 10 měsíci +5

      Barkley said that Bird being unathletic made the floor more even

    • @soth1sol
      @soth1sol Před 10 měsíci +2

      the wayne gretzky of basketball

  • @vickihigh5287
    @vickihigh5287 Před 2 měsíci +6

    That's my man!!! He takes my breath away every time I watch his highlights!!!

  • @christinedreams8099
    @christinedreams8099 Před 2 měsíci +4

    I know little about the game, but clicked on because Bird was my late Dad’s fave. I actually enjoyed listen to you speak about the game and these players. Keeping it real and making it relatable.

  • @avlisk
    @avlisk Před 10 měsíci +191

    I worked on the TV crew during the Bird years. We'd be setting up 4 hours before game time. Larry would be out on the court, every game, all alone with a trainer to feed him the ball, taking shots from all over the court for a good 20 minutes or more. He's the only player I ever saw do this. Then, he'd be back with the rest of the team for the "normal" warm ups. He never stopped working.

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci +7

      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Jokic: 20.2 PPG / 10.5 RPG / 6.6 APG / 1.2 SPG / 0.7 BPG = 39.2
      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Curry: 24.6 PPG / 4.6 RPG / 6.5 APG / 1.6 SPG / 0.2 BPG = 37.3

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci +12

      When it mattered most...Most game-winners (last minute) of All-Time:
      #1) Kobe = 26 (in 1346 games)
      #2) Jordan = 25 (in 1072 games)
      #3) Bird. = 24 (in 897 games)
      #4) LeBron = 19 (in 1366 games)
      ...
      However, when it came to overall game-winners ratio per games played, here are the best of All-Time:
      #1) Bird = 2.67
      #2) Jordan = 2.33

      #3) Kobe 1.93
      ...
      ** LeBron is NOT even in the Top 10

    • @dudeusmaximus6793
      @dudeusmaximus6793 Před 10 měsíci +18

      I think if Bird had just relied on athleticism to carry him, he might have been a solid B player. But it was he intensity, work ethic, hustle, and killer instinct that made him the superstar he was. It's what differentiates him from nearly every other player. Just wish there was more of that today.

    • @teresataddeo4388
      @teresataddeo4388 Před 10 měsíci +2

      Amazing tales:)

    • @kevinkasp
      @kevinkasp Před 10 měsíci +22

      I concur. I was in college at Arizona State. Went to a Celtics - Suns game. Got there an hour before tip off.
      All alone on the court: Larry Bird taking shot after shot from every location he planned to shoot from during the game. I stopped counting after he made like 26 in a row.
      The three time League MVP, yet he was the only one out on the court, feeling he needed that extra preparation.

  • @bryanstock281
    @bryanstock281 Před 10 měsíci +563

    Larry was an assassin of the highest order. He had physical limitations but he had no flaws. Basketball IQ was genius level. Passing, inside, mid-range, outside and 3 pointers AND was an over 90% free throw shooter. Demanded the last shot, told the defense where he was going to take it from and drilled it dead in their azz every time like a machine.
    Dude was cold AF. And I’m a lifelong, die hard LAKER fan!

    • @ngcolby
      @ngcolby Před 10 měsíci +40

      Those finals match ups were still to this day the best games of all time. Two teams that very clearly, left every bit of themselves on the floor. There was nothing left to give.

    • @bryanstock281
      @bryanstock281 Před 10 měsíci +39

      Larry played with heart, grit, toughness. No flopping, crying,
      dodging press conferences, painted finger nails, none of that feminine energy like dominates todays NBA. Larry is a grown azz man that went to war, they just happened to have a basketball on the battlefield.

    • @davidrajaruzicka5546
      @davidrajaruzicka5546 Před 9 měsíci +69

      It's like Barkley said: God made Larry slow and not be able to jump in order to make it fair.

    • @mikefuchs-sb8pv
      @mikefuchs-sb8pv Před 9 měsíci +13

      he was like a shark smelling blood in the water- at all times lol practice included..

    • @charlescheatham179
      @charlescheatham179 Před 9 měsíci +5

      What were his physical limitations? He was faster, a better shooter, a better passer….

  • @landonw7099
    @landonw7099 Před měsícem +2

    Bird was just the definition of “FLOW”. Straight instinct out there. So fun to watch 💯

  • @jc3113
    @jc3113 Před 2 měsíci +2

    I'm 51, there simply wasn't a greater time in the NBA than those Celtics and Lakers rivalry years. I watched every year, and if my team lost it was like we will get them next year. It was those two teams every year, everyone knew it and looked forward to it. They were the best and that rivalry was epic.

  • @screamingliner
    @screamingliner Před 8 měsíci +98

    The days of Magic and Bird were the greatest, from a fan standpoint. So much fun to watch.

    • @MrBruinman86
      @MrBruinman86 Před 7 měsíci +3

      Sure was a fun ride watching those two and then MJ taking over after.

    • @carlreed6186
      @carlreed6186 Před 5 měsíci +2

      Ratings were down and Yes Larry and Magic help revive the sport. I like to mention the two together. That rivalry started when Larry and Indiana State played Michigan State for the title. Magic had Greg Kelser on his team so they beat Bird.

  • @clifflawrence7479
    @clifflawrence7479 Před 7 měsíci +192

    Just so you will know the rest of the story. When Bird got hurt his back was gone. He had to be in traction before and after games. He suffered a concussion and fracture of the right cheek. The doctor told him he was done so Bird waited until he wasn’t looking and snuck back into the game. Bird was all heart 💜!!!!!

    • @clifftanton8385
      @clifftanton8385 Před 5 měsíci +6

      The greatest forward to ever play also the greatest defensive forward to ever play the greatest passing forward to ever play and one of if not the greatest clutch shooters of all time great defensively too also great rebounder first ballot Hall of Famer period

    • @clifflawrence7479
      @clifflawrence7479 Před 5 měsíci +5

      @@clifftanton8385 people just forget or don’t know. I watched Larry Bird and he is my all time favorite but I have done my research on players that were before my time and that’s what people don’t do. Elgin Baylor I think is better than some of the top small forwards they talk about. Way ahead of his time. People just don’t know

    • @clifftanton8385
      @clifftanton8385 Před 5 měsíci +4

      @@clifflawrence7479 agree Baylor great

    • @clifftanton8385
      @clifftanton8385 Před 5 měsíci +3

      @@clifflawrence7479 When I made those comments I wanted to reiterate all the the things that Bird could do did not see Baylor play but did see Bird play

    • @clifflawrence7479
      @clifflawrence7479 Před 5 měsíci +6

      @@clifftanton8385 I think Magic said it best and I agree “Bird is so good it’s scary”. When Bird played most said he was the best that has ever been.

  • @dnatech4477
    @dnatech4477 Před 3 měsíci +3

    Those of us that got to grow up during the Bird/Magic ERA were so lucky. It was a site to behold!

  • @pal4204
    @pal4204 Před 4 měsíci +4

    Larry fell on his face and had to go to the locker room. He came back out to play. They announced that he had a fractured cheek bone! Playing through pain! G.O.A.T.!!!!!!!❤

  • @Yosho359
    @Yosho359 Před 10 měsíci +83

    Best quote I ever read about Bird… “If the game is on the line, and you could place the ball in anyone’s hands for the last second, pick MJ. If instead, you’re life is on the line, pick Bird.” He just had so much grit and heart to go with all that unbelievable talent.

    • @bpark0906
      @bpark0906 Před 10 měsíci +9

      Quoted by former coach Pat Riley.

    • @ChadtheHammer
      @ChadtheHammer Před 10 měsíci +19

      "If I need a shot to win the game, I pick Jordan. If I need a shot to save my life, I pick Bird." --Pat Riley

    • @ngcolby
      @ngcolby Před 10 měsíci +4

      The more pressure you put on Bird, the better he got. His killer instinct surpasses even Jordan's.

    • @one_with_kevrything9825
      @one_with_kevrything9825 Před 10 měsíci +5

      @ngcolby That's highly debatably. What's not is that if any of James' teams ever faced Bird era Celtics or Jordan era Bulls, he would be reduced to tears by the end of the first quarter.

  • @Salmacis99
    @Salmacis99 Před 10 měsíci +82

    No weakness in his game, perfect fundamentals, stone cold killer. highest basketball IQ ever. Bird was a phenomenon- and all the players of his era feared him, for very good reasons!

    • @mrgraham5521
      @mrgraham5521 Před 10 měsíci +4

      Highest basketball I.Q. ever. I couldn't agree more.

    • @ngcolby
      @ngcolby Před 10 měsíci

      Nobody did more with less than he did.

    • @Salmacis99
      @Salmacis99 Před 10 měsíci +1

      @@ngcolby that is a fantastic way to put it- perfectly said.

  • @user-jl9kw9gn3m
    @user-jl9kw9gn3m Před 25 dny +2

    "The level of competition is just no longer there " great commentary ,dude👍

  • @timtonner946
    @timtonner946 Před 4 měsíci +3

    I'm glad I found this channel. This is an intelligent, informed commentator and a superfan of Lebron who, let's face it, is a great player, yet he is willing to analyze another great and is now faced with the possibility of shifting fears on the GOAT question. Love commentarors that are open-minded. I'll definitely be tuning in for more...

  • @tjlpartners8263
    @tjlpartners8263 Před 10 měsíci +126

    I cried when Larry Legend retired. Like Tom Brady, the game is never over when Larry is on your team. His heart, his skill, tenacity, and most of all, his creativity are off the charts.

  • @mitchellwright2943
    @mitchellwright2943 Před 9 měsíci +72

    Bird and Magic were absolutely poetry in motion. Love the old NBA.

    • @joxyjoxyjoxy1
      @joxyjoxyjoxy1 Před 8 měsíci +1

      The Celtics/Lakers/Pistons triangle of hate/respect will never be repeated in any sport.

    • @johntuohy1867
      @johntuohy1867 Před 8 měsíci

      Magic / Bird era:
      Maybe its better we dont know when
      Things will never be that good again.

  • @NickJohnCoop
    @NickJohnCoop Před 2 měsíci +3

    For his passing alone he’d be remembered forever.

  • @Jeff-66
    @Jeff-66 Před 14 dny +2

    I was lucky. I grew up with Bird, Jordan, Dr J, Moses, Isaiah, Magic, Kareem, etc. This was the best the game has ever been.

  • @sandyleewhite
    @sandyleewhite Před 10 měsíci +81

    Magic & Larry, resurrected the game of basketball......My dad loved basketball, but stopped watching, until the competition between Johnson & Bird was highlighted......What my Dad used to say, about Larry's game, is that it reminded him of someone, who was not only playing basketball, but also, volleyball, dodgeball, hockey, baseball, track & Field, soccer, & strategic chess, all at the same time, and was what made him so great 😊He certainly was one of the most unique and gifted players, I have ever watched!

    • @imweakfordeaky
      @imweakfordeaky Před 10 měsíci +3

      Your dad was a wise and observant man

    • @sandyleewhite
      @sandyleewhite Před 10 měsíci +1

      @@imweakfordeaky Awwww, thank you 😊

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci

      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Jokic: 20.2 PPG / 10.5 RPG / 6.6 APG / 1.2 SPG / 0.7 BPG = 39.2
      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Curry: 24.6 PPG / 4.6 RPG / 6.5 APG / 1.6 SPG / 0.2 BPG = 37.3

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci +2

      When it mattered most...Most game-winners (last minute) of All-Time:
      #1) Kobe = 26 (in 1346 games)
      #2) Jordan = 25 (in 1072 games)
      #3) Bird. = 24 (in 897 games)
      #4) LeBron = 19 (in 1366 games)
      ...
      However, when it came to overall game-winners ratio per games played, here are the best of All-Time:
      #1) Bird = 2.67
      #2) Jordan = 2.33

      #3) Kobe 1.93
      ...
      ** LeBron is NOT even in the Top 10

  • @Alleypig
    @Alleypig Před 6 měsíci +94

    I went to see the Celtics play in Dallas in 1986. I had a friend who worked at Reunion Arena at the time, who got me in early. I found my seat and there is Larry Bird two and a half hours before the game practicing. He was the only one on the court. He took a couple hundred shots from long range, hitting pretty much everything. That night he dropped 50 on the Mavericks with 11 rebounds, 5 assists and 1 steal. It was eyeopening to see how hard he worked to do what he did

  • @slave2tyranny
    @slave2tyranny Před 3 měsíci +4

    I was a teenager in the early eighties. I was a Celtics fan back then. Larry was and still is the best! I love MJ. I'm from Chicago!

  • @smittykillsgameing5986

    Bird v Magic ….. if you didn’t see it live 1st hand you missed out.
    They made each other. We were blessed.
    To both from the bottom of my heart I say thanks. It was an honor to watch.

  • @RobertSmith-km6gi
    @RobertSmith-km6gi Před 10 měsíci +63

    The Lakers/Celtics games during the Magic/Bird era were some of the greatest games ever played IMO. They were both at their peak abilities for a few years and the mutual respect they had for each other was obvious. Both were team leaders.

    • @JudyHart1
      @JudyHart1 Před 10 měsíci +1

      Yes, yes, yes!

    • @davidplummer2619
      @davidplummer2619 Před 9 měsíci +1

      Don't forget the Boston-Philly games, every bit as intense, maybe even more so.

    • @RobertSmith-km6gi
      @RobertSmith-km6gi Před 9 měsíci +2

      @@davidplummer2619
      Yeah, I remember it well. I think the major difference was the Celtics respected the Lakers and they hated the Sixers and the Pistons for that matter. Today’s players as talented as they are would struggle with the rough style of play in the 80s. Basketball being a supposed “no contact sport” was a joke. The battling in the paint was just brutal at times.

    • @pistolp01
      @pistolp01 Před 9 měsíci +3

      I was a part of that Basketball era and in my opinion, which is just my opinion, the players today (in my opinion), fall so far by the wayside in comparison. I'm watching a game today, where whoever gets the ball pushes it down the court while all the opposing players do everything in their power not to interfere with this particular player, in any way. Then said basketball player jacks up some ridiculous three pointer, while three of his teammates position themselves around the rim for an almost a guaranteed 2 points, which in today's game just doesn't have much purpose, until (oh wait), you see an important game lost, that could've been won, with only a few of those easily made 2 pointers. Today's game has little or no resemblance to the basketball game I used to play and to still call it a team sport, is a mockery, in my opinion. Anyone with a week's practice can consistently make 3 pointer's, but to take the ball to the hole while 5 other players are trying to dismantle you physically and to still manage to get the ball into the rim, well, that to me was always the magic of the game. And in my opinion, I was unstoppable. Even though many times, I came out broken and bruised, my teammates and friends were there to let me know what an incredible shot I had just made going through the gauntlet. While today the most comaraderie you find with teammates is when am I gonna get traded to a team that can win a championship. Not, a team that we can build into a championship team, but a team I ain't gotta work so hard to win a championship, on. That's just my opinion though..... and almost everyone whose actually played the game of basketball's, opinion. I suppose we could possibly be wrong, but I doubt it.

  • @vinceA3748
    @vinceA3748 Před 9 měsíci +168

    I grew up in the 80's watching the Celtics and Lakers rivalry. Some of the greatest games ever. As Laker fans, we hated Bird. We hated him because we knew he could ruin your day at the drop of a hat. He was that good. After he retired, I missed that guy. He was getting league MVP's while he was playing against NBA legends. He is definitely top 5 all time.

    • @AKSBSU
      @AKSBSU Před 9 měsíci +16

      He was arguably the best player of the 80s, an era that included Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Moses Malone, Dr. J, Isaiah Thomas, and a young Michael Jordan and Hakeem Olajuwon. You have to be pretty damn good to be the best of that bunch.

    • @737DRVER
      @737DRVER Před 9 měsíci +8

      Love the 80's NBA

    • @bighank-hi5fu
      @bighank-hi5fu Před 9 měsíci +3

      Same man! the ball back in the 80s and 90s was a present from the heavens!!! The rivalries were absolutely awesome! REAL MEN PLAYING BALL. now is a fucking joke lol

    • @jalearl
      @jalearl Před 9 měsíci

      80's was the best decade for me

    • @oldbittercraig3513
      @oldbittercraig3513 Před 9 měsíci +1

      Respect. Was only nervous growing up when the C's played the Lakers, Hakeem's Rockets or Dr J's 76ers. Loved Magic showing at his retirement series - respect between two of the absolute best.

  • @Pattyrobinson6969
    @Pattyrobinson6969 Před 29 dny +1

    This guy is such a honest analyst.
    I love this guy!

  • @bonkey12
    @bonkey12 Před 25 dny +1

    One of the best quotes from a hof coach "if i had to pick one player to save a game id pick pick MJ, if i had to pick one player to take a shot to save my life, id pick Larry Bird." Ppl try to compare different eras and stats and stuff but, no one can deny larry is a legend

  • @TheGoatShowMan
    @TheGoatShowMan Před 10 měsíci +50

    One of the few players that you could actually watch his brain work while he was playing. He and Magic were so much fun to watch. Miss em both.

  • @ngcolby
    @ngcolby Před 10 měsíci +153

    Nobody touched Larry's killer instinct, not even MJ. The more pressure you put on Bird, the better he got. You could say that Larry was the John Wick of basketball. He was sheer f'ing will.

    • @redpilledcovfefe
      @redpilledcovfefe Před 9 měsíci +11

      JORDAN NEVER BEAT BIRD IN THE PLAYOFFS! AND I'M A NC NATIVE

    • @mja4wp
      @mja4wp Před 9 měsíci +8

      LOVE THAT....John Wick of Basketball!

    • @fredwaiss5955
      @fredwaiss5955 Před 9 měsíci +18

      I disagree. John Wick is the Larry Bird of violence.

    • @mja4wp
      @mja4wp Před 9 měsíci +1

      @@fredwaiss5955 haha

    • @g-mode5047
      @g-mode5047 Před 9 měsíci +1

      @@redpilledcovfefeidk if you know this but that statement is true no matter where you’re from. 😂

  • @DyaTrill
    @DyaTrill Před 2 měsíci +2

    Kudos to you for being from Cleveland and still recognizing the GOAT

  • @anneseay4905
    @anneseay4905 Před 5 dny +1

    One game he decided to play left handed. He did & I believe that he scored 47 pts, then went to right hand. A beast on the floor.

  • @tiges1972
    @tiges1972 Před 10 měsíci +33

    Bird lead by example and brought the entire team up another level. True warrior.

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci

      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Jokic: 20.2 PPG / 10.5 RPG / 6.6 APG / 1.2 SPG / 0.7 BPG = 39.2
      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Curry: 24.6 PPG / 4.6 RPG / 6.5 APG / 1.6 SPG / 0.2 BPG = 37.3

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci

      When it mattered most...Most game-winners (last minute) of All-Time:
      #1) Kobe = 26 (in 1346 games)
      #2) Jordan = 25 (in 1072 games)
      #3) Bird. = 24 (in 897 games)
      #4) LeBron = 19 (in 1366 games)
      ...
      However, when it came to overall game-winners ratio per games played, here are the best of All-Time:
      #1) Bird = 2.67
      #2) Jordan = 2.33

      #3) Kobe 1.93
      ...
      ** LeBron is NOT even in the Top 10

  • @gdasher
    @gdasher Před 10 měsíci +35

    You talked through the fact that he came back into that game against Indiana with a fracture of the left cheekbone.

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci

      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Jokic: 20.2 PPG / 10.5 RPG / 6.6 APG / 1.2 SPG / 0.7 BPG = 39.2
      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Curry: 24.6 PPG / 4.6 RPG / 6.5 APG / 1.6 SPG / 0.2 BPG = 37.3

  • @jimmyhamm6041
    @jimmyhamm6041 Před měsícem +1

    Larry was always having his mind going , thinking creativity was his
    best subject . Always achieving the
    unthinkable and making it happen .

  • @montywilson2597
    @montywilson2597 Před měsícem +1

    Bird will always be my #1 and it was a treat to see you discover his greatness.

  • @aragorn1ring
    @aragorn1ring Před 10 měsíci +43

    1a. MJ
    1b. Larry Legend
    Keep going down the Bird rabbit hole. He has a whole trash talking video, he has a 10 min passing video, he has a video of a collection of NBA legends discussing how great he is and theres even a making the case for the GOAT video. The stuff he did was unbelievable just like MJ.

    • @criticalinfrastructurepart1959
      @criticalinfrastructurepart1959 Před 2 měsíci +1

      1a. Larry Legend
      1b. Mikey
      The NBA changed defensive rules for Mikey after Bird and Magic retired in order to allow Mikey to get off the ground and showcase his above the rim play. However, while Larry and Ervin were in the league they kept him grounded.

    • @aragorn1ring
      @aragorn1ring Před 2 měsíci +1

      @@criticalinfrastructurepart1959 Agreed. I only put Jordan ahead of Bird because Bird puts him ahead of himself. Bird is very humble but when he said God disguised himself like Michael Jordan I think he was being sincere

  • @Stoney312
    @Stoney312 Před 10 měsíci +99

    I'm a Laker fan. Bird always scared me! He was a basketball genius!

    • @reljimal1
      @reljimal1 Před 10 měsíci +5

      Same, bird would just carve out your heart at the buzzer.

    • @zenzombie72
      @zenzombie72 Před 10 měsíci +1

      Same here.
      Nowadays I'm not so tribal, and that gives me a lot of room to admire the 'opposition' for their skills. Even LeBron.

    • @conchobar
      @conchobar Před 10 měsíci +4

      Exactly. I was a Detroit fan, and Bird scared you. If Bird shot a last second shot, you just turned off the TV and assumed it went in.

    • @dbilly7
      @dbilly7 Před 10 měsíci +3

      I always disliked the Lakers because on occasion they would beat the Celtics. But loved Johnson, Cooper, Worthy, Jabbar, Rambis, Scott. Man they could play.

    • @pkpiohia5773
      @pkpiohia5773 Před 10 měsíci +2

      Larry bird and magic Johnson saved the NBA when they entered the league in 79.

  • @MontanaCal
    @MontanaCal Před dnem

    As I watched you react I really respect how you saw it. With the reverence for what the game was and how amazing Bird was. I lived it. Im 62 and a Lakers fan. I HATED the Celtics but loved the competition. And you are dead on the money about todays game. Loved this video

  • @daleglaze1975
    @daleglaze1975 Před 2 měsíci +1

    Thanks for the memories Polo, I really enjoyed the commentary as well, stay safe!!

  • @localhoast2009
    @localhoast2009 Před 10 měsíci +177

    Late 80's and 90's basketball was just pure gold. Magic, Larry, Ewing, Reggie. Those guys loved the sport, I looked up to those guys growing up. Thank you POLO for everything you do!

    • @chrish9762
      @chrish9762 Před 10 měsíci +12

      Don't forget Stockton and Malone. John Stockton, one of the greatest point guards to ever play

    • @Jetz316
      @Jetz316 Před 10 měsíci +6

      Kobe and I were born in the same year. I’ve gotten to see a lot of super talented basket players from Larry, Magic, MJ right through today. LeBron, Curry. 👍🏻👍🏻

    • @MS-ns2pj
      @MS-ns2pj Před 10 měsíci +2

      @@chrish9762 Stockton is the greatest point guard ever.

    • @mikemclaughlin3306
      @mikemclaughlin3306 Před 10 měsíci +3

      Dr. J AND MOSES MALONE

    • @keithbalke6352
      @keithbalke6352 Před 10 měsíci +2

      By late 80s for all intents Larry was shot bodily

  • @Silvergent1027
    @Silvergent1027 Před 8 měsíci +122

    Larry Bird is the epitome on not judging a book by its cover. The man was an incredible passer and defender, as well a lethal scorer. Just ask Magic and Michael, they'll tell you.

    • @raywatkins4227
      @raywatkins4227 Před 7 měsíci +5

      he looks like a tall science teacher schoolin the NBA

    • @dongiovanni6796
      @dongiovanni6796 Před 7 měsíci +8

      I saw Bird live a number of times, and on TV many more. These highlight reels of course condense the most astonishing plays. But what it was like to see a full game was this: you'd get to halftime, and you'd think, "Yeah, well, Bird didn't do much. It was a quiet half." Then you look at the scoreboard, and Bird has 18 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists. Then the end comes and he's got 38 points and a triple double. And you hardly could tell. Normally a guy makes a triple double and he's all over the floor and everyone notices. Bird just quietly filled the scoresheet up. Over and over. And won and won. And the reason he's better than either LeBron or Jordan is this. If he is on the same team as either guy, he makes that guy better. But neither of them would or could make him better. That's the difference.

    • @debbymccormick7761
      @debbymccormick7761 Před 6 měsíci +4

      My family had Boston Celtics season tickets. I went to many Celtics game. He was unbelievable. Outstanding.

    • @Sunny-jz3dy
      @Sunny-jz3dy Před 6 měsíci +2

      @@dongiovanni6796 I agree! Bird was an all-around player! No one can match Bird!

  • @hughbennett5342
    @hughbennett5342 Před 4 měsíci +2

    I just love your commentary! Is just so right on. Those weren't just basketball games they were wars! Welcome to the Larry legend Fan Club!

  • @CryptoBiz44
    @CryptoBiz44 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Badass video enjoyed every minute of it. I watched all those games live!! I aint watched NBA in like 6 yrs and now im reminded why

  • @MetalBackingTracks
    @MetalBackingTracks Před 10 měsíci +62

    he made the nba earn top $, everybody should thank him and magic

    • @andyausman2139
      @andyausman2139 Před 10 měsíci

      Amen

    • @kdailey4315
      @kdailey4315 Před 10 měsíci +3

      There is no Michael Jordan if Bird and Magic didn't so what they did.

    • @sjedi5646
      @sjedi5646 Před 10 měsíci +2

      It took Jordan 7 years to get great Bird was great outa the gate with a harder nba that he had to play by the time Jordan was winning all the real legendary players were either old or retired now the nba is a fkn joke unwatchable trash

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci +1

      In the past 50 years, here are the highest Total Career Avg Stat Points (PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      #1) Jordan = 44.7
      #2) LeBron = 44.4
      #3) Bird = 43.1
      #4) Kareem = 42.9
      #5) Magic = 40.2
      #6) Durant = 40.1
      ... many other players
      #24) Curry = 37.3

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci

      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Jokic: 20.2 PPG / 10.5 RPG / 6.6 APG / 1.2 SPG / 0.7 BPG = 39.2
      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Curry: 24.6 PPG / 4.6 RPG / 6.5 APG / 1.6 SPG / 0.2 BPG = 37.3

  • @art3mis290
    @art3mis290 Před 10 měsíci +29

    "Larry Bird, Making the case" a must watch. And thank you for your honest review of this video. There are comparison made to other players in "Making the case" you may enjoy.

  • @JMorgan51511
    @JMorgan51511 Před 2 měsíci +1

    First video I’ve ever seen of yours. I love your persona, attitude, and relaxed nature you take with your videos. Easy to watch bro. You make a lot of sense to which I guess is part of it but just being able to hang onto somebody talking is sometimes tough to pull off. Thanks man!

  • @eighthwonderproject1395
    @eighthwonderproject1395 Před měsícem

    Yeah man I was here is the most watching the highlights and your reactions. Awesome. We appreciate the love of the game.

  • @melissaisloud7404
    @melissaisloud7404 Před 10 měsíci +34

    Larry Bird was the greatest tactician of the game. Larry Bird understood the game to the cellular level. He was absolutely phenomenal, and being a bball fan during the Bird years was a truly special time in this world.

  • @carolyngilbert5121
    @carolyngilbert5121 Před 7 měsíci +89

    You are soooo right. Today's NBA is a joke!
    I'm 65 and sorely miss 'yesterday's' players.😢

    • @carlreed6186
      @carlreed6186 Před 5 měsíci +2

      Wilt Chamberlain. You like me only saw the tail end of his career. We remember a player named Lew Alcindor before he became Kareem Abdul Jabbar

    • @carlreed6186
      @carlreed6186 Před 5 měsíci

      Jerry West also one of the best ever.

    • @wingandhog
      @wingandhog Před 5 měsíci

      I am 64 and 100% agree. I rarely watch pro sports anymore

    • @carlreed6186
      @carlreed6186 Před 5 měsíci +1

      I still watch football but when my sonics left town I stopped watching the NBA except for the playoffs.@@wingandhog

    • @courtney5796
      @courtney5796 Před 5 měsíci

      Could you imagine a player in today's NBA coming back into a game after breaking their face!!!? Me either. Some big guy got wheelchaired off after a possible concussion...🤣🤣🤣
      Edit: Watching Larry in 360p is better than watching most the league today in 4k

  • @cwhite1249
    @cwhite1249 Před 2 měsíci +1

    I’ve seen a few Bird tribute vids in my time, but yours are s the best I’ve ever seen. Bro, the way you broke down his game…. Got me emotional. You’re an artist, just like LB.

  • @gregoryrogalsky6937
    @gregoryrogalsky6937 Před 2 měsíci

    Much respect.. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and old footage.

  • @pxlmvr7
    @pxlmvr7 Před 10 měsíci +42

    Larry’s fadeaway was undefendable. He splashed every time.

  • @RedHand_Mat
    @RedHand_Mat Před 10 měsíci +47

    87 to 91 was the greatest era of basketball. Bird. Magic. Isaiah. Jordan. Unbelievable competition and skill. Nothing today comes close.

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci +4

      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Jokic: 20.2 PPG / 10.5 RPG / 6.6 APG / 1.2 SPG / 0.7 BPG = 39.2
      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Curry: 24.6 PPG / 4.6 RPG / 6.5 APG / 1.6 SPG / 0.2 BPG = 37.3

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci +7

      When it mattered most...Most game-winners (last minute) of All-Time:
      #1) Kobe = 26 (in 1346 games)
      #2) Jordan = 25 (in 1072 games)
      #3) Bird. = 24 (in 897 games)
      #4) LeBron = 19 (in 1366 games)
      ...
      However, when it came to overall game-winners ratio per games played, here are the best of All-Time:
      #1) Bird = 2.67
      #2) Jordan = 2.33

      #3) Kobe 1.93
      ...
      ** LeBron is NOT even in the Top 10

    • @deihorus7927
      @deihorus7927 Před 10 měsíci +7

      @@FreedomFighter2112 None who watched the 80's even consider LBJ a top 10.

    • @dylanallen7720
      @dylanallen7720 Před 10 měsíci

      @@deihorus7927 and they are all idiots lol

    • @julianmarsh8384
      @julianmarsh8384 Před 10 měsíci

      You are partially right...please look up clips of early 80s....the rivalry between the Celtics and Philidelphia may equal in intensity the best days of 87--91...

  • @jeremyp7013
    @jeremyp7013 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Just put a lump in my throat with chills. Great show man great

  • @sully2350
    @sully2350 Před 10 měsíci +78

    Dude was a Legend. Watching him was surreal. You knew you were witnessing something beyond special. He was unbelievable. So many great players during that time period. Respect to ALL of them.

    • @ngcolby
      @ngcolby Před 10 měsíci +8

      He was like Jordan in that you just had to watch as many games as you could, because you never knew what crazy thing they were going to do next.

    • @juanmurillo3176
      @juanmurillo3176 Před 10 měsíci +2

      Would you concur that the '80s were much more competitive than the '90s?

    • @cesarmedina7080
      @cesarmedina7080 Před 10 měsíci +3

      Was? He is a legend.

    • @cesarmedina7080
      @cesarmedina7080 Před 10 měsíci +2

      @@juanmurillo3176 the mid and late 90s yes. Early 90s were about as good as 80s ball. You could see the change after Magic, Bird and Jordan retired in that order from 91-93. 94 on was increasingly bad.

    • @cesarmedina7080
      @cesarmedina7080 Před 10 měsíci +2

      By time Jordan came back the league was a lot weaker. He had no real competition until 98 when Pacers pushed them to 7 games in conference finals. Sonics and Jazz were really good but not good enough. I was surprised the Magic didnt give the Bulls more of a challenge. They beat them in second round in 95 but Jordan had only been back for a couple months. The next year Chicago wiped the floor with them. Rodman made a big difference too.

  • @jefflawver971
    @jefflawver971 Před 10 měsíci +100

    My man, you have Bird and Magic to thank for literally
    saving the NBA. I saw it first hand. Those two played
    every game like it was their last. They were the two most
    unselfish superstars, and seemed to always shine in the
    biggest moments. The biggest tragedy was that both their
    careers didn't last longer. Bird's back, and Magic's HIV took,
    in my estimation several more years off of their careers.

    • @rodgerlang884
      @rodgerlang884 Před 9 měsíci +4

      Magic's hamstring issues really robbed him of a bunch of time as well. Can you imagine these guys with today's training and medical technology? Also try to imagine guarding Magic, Larry, MJ, etc with today's rules.....

    • @bernardjameswilson
      @bernardjameswilson Před 9 měsíci +2

      @@rodgerlang884 if Bird had todays NBA money he wouldn't have been paving his moms driveway himself and end up getting injured.

    • @imweakfordeaky
      @imweakfordeaky Před 9 měsíci +3

      @@bernardjameswilsonBird wasn’t lacking money to pave his mama’s driveway (he lived frugally and saved his money instead of flashing it around) - Bird just did his own work because that’s who he was.

    • @bernardjameswilson
      @bernardjameswilson Před 9 měsíci +1

      @@imweakfordeaky that might be true but he was a man of the time. With the crazy stupid money they hand out nowadays his mentality would be very different. Plus the team management nowadays would never allow him to that stuff

    • @brianwiemers1158
      @brianwiemers1158 Před 9 měsíci

      ​@@bernardjameswilson Bird had plenty of money to have it done. He preferred to do it himself.

  • @danielwebster4569
    @danielwebster4569 Před 2 dny

    Totally clutch. You have now evolved and recognize greatness in Led Zepplin and Larry Bird 🐦. Higher level consciousness achieved.
    PS: that game vs Indiana when Bird went down with a facial fracture. The team trainer said he could not play.......so Bird waited until he was distracted and ran down the tunnel to get back for the dub in the playoffs.
    PPS: Rain Song 🎵 and back story..

  • @josephsimontacchi2285
    @josephsimontacchi2285 Před měsícem +1

    Polo. I enjoyed your honest comments. Refreshing.

  • @thegenxgamerr
    @thegenxgamerr Před 10 měsíci +31

    I'm 53 I got a chance to see Larry play live. Larry was good. He was so good that Larry Bird is the only player to win a League MVP, a coach of the year, and executive of the year. His basketball ability extended to every aspect of the game. No other player has been able to win the top award in all three aspects of the game (player, coach, GM)

    • @teddyj5187
      @teddyj5187 Před 10 měsíci +3

      Rookie of year too

    • @deanbrunner261
      @deanbrunner261 Před 10 měsíci

      The rivalry with Magic started in college

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci

      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Jokic: 20.2 PPG / 10.5 RPG / 6.6 APG / 1.2 SPG / 0.7 BPG = 39.2
      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Curry: 24.6 PPG / 4.6 RPG / 6.5 APG / 1.6 SPG / 0.2 BPG = 37.3

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci

      When it mattered most...Most game-winners (last minute) of All-Time:
      #1) Kobe = 26 (in 1346 games)
      #2) Jordan = 25 (in 1072 games)
      #3) Bird. = 24 (in 897 games)
      #4) LeBron = 19 (in 1366 games)
      ...
      However, when it came to overall game-winners ratio per games played, here are the best of All-Time:
      #1) Bird = 2.67
      #2) Jordan = 2.33

      #3) Kobe 1.93
      ...
      ** LeBron is NOT even in the Top 10

  • @j-porter
    @j-porter Před 8 měsíci +54

    Polo, I had the privilege of witnessing the players of the 70', 80', an 90's. It makes my heart happy to hear someone of your generation actually watching and appreciating the greatness of the greats. Larry was truly a legend and simply fun to watch. Though the greats of today are amazing, I don't believe they will ever have the killer instinct that Larry, Magic, Michael, etc. ever had.

    • @albertcharles7182
      @albertcharles7182 Před 5 měsíci +1

      Greetings from the Caribbean.
      I am a fan of Larry Bird, even though my personal favorite player is Michael Jordan...
      Now..., about Mr. Bird.., I quite recently learned that the original bird logo for the app formerly known as Twitter, was designed and dedicated to him.
      If I ever wondered what "giant of the game" meant and who in Boston could exemplify it, the answer has been given - Larry 'Legend' Bird.
      Salutè..!

    • @chicago23cub
      @chicago23cub Před 4 měsíci

      Yup mentality!!!!!!!

  • @brian6961
    @brian6961 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Bird was just something different. I love seeing fans deep dive on his career for the first time.

  • @tommyhoolihan9806
    @tommyhoolihan9806 Před měsícem

    You said so many things that are just so right. About level of competition (defense was so intense back then, it was so passionate), three point shooting contest, poetry in motion, that and as a Bruin fan your early plug for Baron Davis… awesome video! Props!

  • @hermixtonen
    @hermixtonen Před 10 měsíci +25

    Your comment “these guys love the game and now it is a bunch of prima donnas” is 100% spot on. These guys stayed with one team their entire career, rather than switching careers and recruiting a super team of players. These guys did not sit out more games than they played (Zion, Lonzo, etc…) for little things like groin injuries . These guys played through significant injuries because they had this incredible desire to win

    • @juanmurillo3176
      @juanmurillo3176 Před 10 měsíci

      You do realize that every generation says that about the next generation. The players from the '70s said the same thing about the players from the '80s & so on & so on. I can't stand people that suffer from the back in my day syndrome. If today's players played in the previous era's, they'd be just has good as they are now. It's just the popular thing to say that about past & present era's. Why do you think they say that about the NBA as well as the NFL & MLB. It's just lazy & inaccurate. Just you wait, tomorrow's fans will say the same thing about today's players. You'll see.

    • @hermixtonen
      @hermixtonen Před 10 měsíci +1

      @@juanmurillo3176 the players from the 70’s were not saying “those players in the 80’s like to change teams and recruit super teams, and they sit out more games than they play for little things like groin injuries “

    • @lisahesslink2267
      @lisahesslink2267 Před 9 měsíci

      @@juanmurillo3176 That might be true but compare when LeBron had to be carried off the court for dehydration and Bird's playing with a bad back for years. And that's just one example. Are 100 percent of them like that? Kobe wasn't, but he seemed to be the exception rather than the rule. And the players from today don't have to contend with the physicality of the previous eras. You look at somebody funny these days (or so it seems) you get a foul. Watch these guys jostling each other all over the place in older games. Current players would be doing but "flopping".

  • @jakeand9020
    @jakeand9020 Před 2 měsíci +1

    The thing about Bird that makes him different is, people (LeBron fans mostly) like to say Jordan couldn't compete with the athleticism of todays players, Bird couldn't compete with the athleticism of the players he was playing against and he was STILL one of the best.

  • @davidl.7317
    @davidl.7317 Před 3 dny

    I've been watching NBA since 1970's , always a Celtics fan, Red Sox fan and NY Giants fan.

  • @terryjackson2045
    @terryjackson2045 Před 8 měsíci +35

    Like Walton was saying Bird played the whole game left handed and got a triple double with 42pts! He will always be in my top five forever!

    • @mikemurray726
      @mikemurray726 Před 5 měsíci

      Who the other four that are hands down better than Bird?

  • @bujmoose3992
    @bujmoose3992 Před 10 měsíci +17

    One thing about Bird's teammates-- they weren't a flashy bunch but the always seemed to be ready if Bird passed the ball. They always had their eyes on the ball. That is excellent coaching.

    • @Orphim
      @Orphim Před 10 měsíci +4

      From what I understand, Larry taught them to be that way in practice. McHale has a few stories about crazy passes Bird would do in practice and Bird told him to always be ready for the ball as no matter where he was, Bird could get it to him.

  • @AWAKEtheIRON
    @AWAKEtheIRON Před měsícem

    I appreciate your honesty on this video. Most people have a nostalgic bias for the players they grew up watching and im no different. I was born in 1976 and grew up watching Kareem, Bird, Magic, Jordan. My dad grew up watching Dr. J, Oscar Robertson, Wilt Chamberlain, etc. He was a Celtics/Bird fan so those games were always on and Bird was his favorite of all time. I really do think that was the golden era of the NBA. The Bird/Johnson Celtic/Laker rivalry was electrifying! Not trying to belittle any current playrrs but that era just had a quality to it I can't explain.

  • @jonathankurtz6657
    @jonathankurtz6657 Před 2 měsíci +1

    Bird is most definitely the all time GOAT! Bird & Magic actually saved the NBA. Before them, NBA Finals were shown late night, after reruns of Gunsmoke.
    Bird had a strong work ethic, he was also the highest paid basketball player. He worked hard to earn a paycheck Bird & Magic made basketball exciting again, the had the same style of play. They were the best players beginning their rookie yr. Hats off to Magic to be man enough to admit Bird was better. They were the best.
    Jordan came along at the end of Bird & Magic's career. He was a more athletic & dynamic player, but even he called Bird White Jesus.
    Basketball was so exciting in the 80s and 90s.
    No one can compare to those 3.

  • @SecretSpots
    @SecretSpots Před 10 měsíci +47

    This was awesome dude! I'm 52 and remember watching Bird play live on TV and seeing all those games back then as a kid. Bird was without a doubt, one of the most passionate and gifted players that ever lived. Just frikken beautiful to witness. I got goosebumps watching this knowing how magical and memorable those moments were. They almost seem even more special now looking back. Thank you bro.

    • @yebopa2692
      @yebopa2692 Před 10 měsíci

      I'm 51. My world stopped when Larry played. I cried when he lost

  • @patrickmarriott5793
    @patrickmarriott5793 Před 8 měsíci +29

    I love Stockton because he wouldn't say a word. He would go out and drop 17 points, 14 assists, 3 steals, then head home in his minivan. He has to be one of the most under appreciated first ballot HOFers ever with 2 career records that will never be broken. I know it's a Larry video and Larry is a legend, but I have to give Stockton props at all times.

    • @jfayiii
      @jfayiii Před 8 měsíci +2

      Most people would choose Magic over Stockton and it's hard to argue with that. But Stockton is sort of the prototype point guard to Magic's unicorn.

  • @Paul-zf8ob
    @Paul-zf8ob Před měsícem

    Magic and Bird were two of the greatest players I ever watched! They both made their teams a unit that worked together!

  • @rumbletruck1
    @rumbletruck1 Před 3 měsíci +1

    This is one of your best videos to date; actually choked me up. I grew up on that era of play and I also stopped watching basket ball, for the same reasons as you state.
    Keep up the great content, sir!

  • @mckill32
    @mckill32 Před 10 měsíci +50

    Birds the real GOAT. People these days and even when MJ came on the scene are so in to seeing the dunks and the athletic style of play they are quick to call those players the best. Bird did whatever he wanted when he wanted without the athletic excuse. He told you what he was going to do and there wasn’t one player including MJ that could do anything about it. Best all around player and it’s not that close beside MJ.

    • @SGTJDerek
      @SGTJDerek Před 10 měsíci +1

      I love MJ and he does stand above everyone else as my All Time but Bird stands firmly in 2nd. But if I'm building a Team from scratch, my 1st pick will ALWAYS be Bird. Everything would center around him because he ELEVATED The Team. It took MJ a couple of years to understand that.
      Remember, Micheal never beat Bird in the playoffs. My starters would be
      Bird
      Jordan
      Russell
      Chamberlin
      Kareem
      On the Bench
      Magic
      Kobe
      O'Neal
      Dominique
      Washington

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci

      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Jokic: 20.2 PPG / 10.5 RPG / 6.6 APG / 1.2 SPG / 0.7 BPG = 39.2
      Total Stat Points (Career Avg PTS + REB + AST + STL + BLK)
      Bird: 24.3 PPG / 10.0 RPG / 6.3 APG / 1.7 SPG / 0.8 BPG = 43.1
      Curry: 24.6 PPG / 4.6 RPG / 6.5 APG / 1.6 SPG / 0.2 BPG = 37.3

    • @FreedomFighter2112
      @FreedomFighter2112 Před 10 měsíci +1

      When it mattered most...Most game-winners (last minute) of All-Time:
      #1) Kobe = 26 (in 1346 games)
      #2) Jordan = 25 (in 1072 games)
      #3) Bird. = 24 (in 897 games)
      #4) LeBron = 19 (in 1366 games)
      ...
      However, when it came to overall game-winners ratio per games played, here are the best of All-Time:
      #1) Bird = 2.67
      #2) Jordan = 2.33

      #3) Kobe 1.93
      ...
      ** LeBron is NOT even in the Top 10

    • @mckill32
      @mckill32 Před 10 měsíci

      @@FreedomFighter2112 doesn’t surprise me that lebron isn’t in top 10.

    • @ClarkeRaglin-yj5nj
      @ClarkeRaglin-yj5nj Před 9 měsíci +1

      No one could stop bird no one but bird didn't play champion Jordan when he took over the NBA

  • @dannydavis1659
    @dannydavis1659 Před 8 měsíci +26

    Watching those Lakers vs Celtics matchips in the 80's were just fantastic. Magic and Bird.

  • @ljh45s
    @ljh45s Před 4 dny +1

    Larry and Magic was the best, of all time,s there wont be any more like them, they new how to play the game, thanks for the post,

  • @bobbybarton3377
    @bobbybarton3377 Před 4 měsíci

    Spot on, awesome vid!
    I remember how competitive the NBA was those magical and legendary years!❤

  • @stevenmonte7397
    @stevenmonte7397 Před 10 měsíci +19

    When you watch the highlights, they don’t lie. Larry was a BAD MAN!!!!

  • @robertshea3677
    @robertshea3677 Před 8 měsíci +33

    Pistons fans growing up and saw alot of Bird during that era. He was one of a kind and there's been nobody like him since. Celtic, Lakers, Bulls and Pistons had some of the best games in an era where physical ball was not only expected but respected.

    • @kevinwaldie2367
      @kevinwaldie2367 Před 5 měsíci

      Me too and I hated Bird then! But, he was an absolute dawg!

    • @jonathanshumpert9549
      @jonathanshumpert9549 Před 4 měsíci +1

      What was the nickname for the Pistons? I think it was Bad boys or something like that. They played the toughest on defense of any team during their championship caliber years. They would beat people up. I was a Celtics fan and then later was watching the Bulls with MJ. Detroit was tough.

  • @timothymonti233
    @timothymonti233 Před měsícem

    everything about this video is awesome! Thank you

  • @blindeyedog01
    @blindeyedog01 Před 15 dny

    Im with you: I was a die hard Lakers' fan in the 80s, love the Magic v. Bird legacy. I love Jordan and Kobe, my favorite player is Sir Barkley. Love Charles. ❤❤❤

  • @NoEgg4u
    @NoEgg4u Před 8 měsíci +74

    Listening to the NBA legends, on talk shows, talking about Larry Bird's trash talk is almost better than watching Bird's amazing skills on the court. Their stories are engaging, entertaining, and hilarious -- and they all had respect for Bird, and they all must have loved it, based on the fun they have re-living it.

    • @clpendygraft
      @clpendygraft Před 6 měsíci +1

      Almost.

    • @MrPocketfullOfSteel
      @MrPocketfullOfSteel Před 5 měsíci

      @@clpendygraft *lol*

    • @joshswicegood3253
      @joshswicegood3253 Před 4 měsíci

      I think it was because he wasnt actually trying to insult someone. He would just tell players what he would do, and do it.