IS HE UNDERRATED!? Larry Bird ULTIMATE Mixtape | REACTION

[@mikerichardson8983]

Trust me larry legend was a bad man. I seen him play his whole career. Bird was the most complete player to ever play the game. Toughest SOB, had unlimited range, clutches player to ever play, rebounded like a center, would d up on anybody, was one of the greatest passer to ever play. and the most important thing about bird was he made everybody on the team better. There will never be another Larry Bird. The goat.

[@joeday4293]

Probably the biggest ball hawk in the history of the game. Larry Bird absolutely would not let you put his basketball out of bounds. He would go get it no matter where it was going.

[@zodi9783]

He had an instinct for the game that was and is unparalleled. He seemed to always know where the ball was going to go, where his teammates were, and how to make it so the ball would go in from any angle or distance. He wasn't obsessed with stats, he just wanted to win be it by dominating himself or by making his teammates better with his passing and offball movement

[@dfaust391]

I agree with you in every aspect. Im my eyes, hes my goat...but there's no denying black Jesus. Diff decades, teams, and players..majic..but they are all on the mt Rushmore of basketball

[@brynajones8076]

Agreed...

[@RobwLPOC]

I have watched Clips on here of both Wilt Chamberlain and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar saying Larry Bird was probably the best player they've played against during their careers. Especially older basketball fans, would argue one of those two was the greatest ever. I'm forty-five myself so kindergarten to grade 11 was Larry Bird's career. I grew up in Vancouver Canada and like most in the area was a Sonics fan because they were just across the border in Seattle. Unfortunately the team with the worst win-loss record in the history of professional sports franchises the Vancouver Grizzlies kind of turned me off of basketball I quit watching almost completely really about the time Jordan retired. Always love to Larry Bird and the Celtics as well, I'm glad to see that the younger generation is able to see what a different level of player he was. I can't think of another player in NBA history who legitimately had one of his opponents contemplating suicide because he felt like a fraud thinking he belongs in the same league with somebody like Larry Bird 🐦 🤣 I do like that a couple of the reactions people have done they are laughing that a guy looked as if was playing around like a Harlem Globetrotter against the top-level NBA players he used as pylons. A great spot is when they see four players on the other team jump at once due to a fake out.

[@wholehogfan]

It hits a little different when you find out your favorite players favorite player is Larry Bird. That era was unbelievable.

[@shirleybuffington6420]

Larry was so well respected in Boston the night of his retirement ceremony there was no game that night but yet the place was sold out .

[@williamstevens4172]

The fact you put respect on Larry Legends name without doubt is a huge plus. He has earned his place at the G.O.A.T. table

[@erwinorellano34]

He was the man. Period. Point. Blank.

[@crystallinekicks3986]

Larry played with a mangled finger. He got in college before he played basketball. Larry played with a career ending back injury from mid 85 to the end of his career. And didn't take any pain meds. He lost the stability of his back. He had to be in a brace, get adjustments, would lay on the ground instead of sit on the bench. The Dr said it's like someone slamming a car door on your finger & keeps smashing it. The other teams knew where to get Larry. If you re-watch Larry vids, you can see dudes getting his back. Rodman was one. Add the Achilles injuries and surgeries on both feet(88/89). It's incredible he was able to do the things he did. Made all the records he did. I seriously doubt any of these new cats could do half of the things Larry did. I think it was 88/89 when Larry was injured. Two weeks into his time off. He got so bored. He started eating. A lot. He said he ate 10 gallons of ice cream and seven wedding cakes. He chose wedding cakes because he knew they would be good. He said "who would f up a wedding cake?" 😁 Classic Larry Legend

[@dongiovanni6796]

I saw Bird several times late in his career. He was in such pain, he had to lay on his stomach on the floor on the sidelines when he wasn't in the game. Then he would go back in and score and score. It was unreal.

[@CALVINLNIKONT]

Larry's right index finger was shattered by a line drive while playing softball in the summer between college and the Celtics. Larry didn't go to the doctor right away and when the Celtics heard about it, they almost fainted. The Celtics brought Larry to Boston and had Larry shoot a bunch of shots until Red Auerbach pronounced Larry good enough to play.

[@joeday4293]

He literally broke his face with that fall. Fractured orbital bone. And came back and dominated. He was one bad, bad man.

[@mattcampbell334]

And had double vision when he came back out

[@michaelburns7530]

Was slightly concussed and seeing double too

[@joeday4293]

@@michaelburns7530 Back when basketball was still a tough game.

[@plefevre]

Last year I had a cycling accident and fractured my right cheek and orbital, same as Larry! The idea of playing basketball and dominating the last quarter to seal a win is difficult to comprehend, not just from a willpower standpoint, he already had that covered, but the injury has your body in shock, your vision is compromised and your face is pounding with pain. I still can't believe he did that.

[@RavenheartIndustries]

@Rheumattica It wasn't just against the advice of trainers, he got someone to distract them so he could put himself back in the game. #damn

[@mygoatisdead]

I've seen probably 10 Larry Bird ULTIMATE Mixtape reaction videos. Yours was the best no question. You know when not to talk, and when you do talk it's substantive and engaging. Love what you said about why the opposing team "believes" his fake passes.

[@vanessareis4582]

Pat Riley has been quoted saying , “ If your game is on the line , give the ball to Michael Jorden.” “ If your Life is on the line , give the ball to Larry Bird” No doubt there were a few extraordinary players in this specific era of NBA . Larry Bird was an MVP on the court , from the bench coaching & from the executive offices. No one else has done all this so well . 🤘🏽

[@sukmynut]

Mj is the better player all around and statistically Mike is the goat.

[@vanessareis4582]

@@sukmynut MJ was a force of nature , with a court IQ off the charts . When he wins coach & exec of the year , MJ will have contributed all around to basketball like Larry Bird . We can all thank MJ that we haven’t worn those awful Addidas for the last 30 years 😄🤘🏽

[@sukmynut]

@@vanessareis4582 so winning coach & exec of the year make you the goat.... too bad Mike must have missed the memo. Also nobody has contributed all around to basketball more than MJ period.

[@sukmynut]

@@vanessareis4582 so get you're facts together or jus stfu and go back to you're English homework kiddo

[@G_Demolished]

Every time I see that Riley quote it reminds me of another quote. “That’s not Michael Jordan. That is GOD disguised as Michael Jordan.” - Larry Bird

[@aramhamparian9641]

If Bird ain't in your top 5 all time, you don't know basketball....

[@jaysonraphaelmurdock8812]

PREACH ON!

[@simplysimple7628]

He in mine!!! It’s pretty much common sense. Bird was a winner. Dude would play and win till he dies. In his prime that is. Just to think, Larry was NEVER 100%. NEVER!! He literally played his whole career hurt. I dream of watching a fully healthy Larry Bird play. Boy would that be something to watch. Fucks sake man🤦🏽‍♂️🤦🏽‍♂️🤦🏽‍♂️🤦🏽‍♂️

[@amirplot]

I agree

[@jamesburns8827]

Larry Bird and Magic Johnson documentary is one of the best I've ever seen in my life. On the court they were Rivals off-the-court they were brothers. Larry said he wouldn't have been the player you became without magic to bring out the best in him. 10 out of 10 documentary

[@stevelubbehusen5842]

watch it...

[@Lonewolfmike]

To pharaphrase Spinal Tap turn it up to 11. It is one of the best documentaries of all time.

[@APB225]

Forgive my ignorance but which doco are you talking about?

[@Lonewolfmike]

@@APB225 Spinal Tap is a mockumentary about a rock band. One of the characters has amps that go up to 11. LOL

[@APB225]

@@Lonewolfmike I know and appreciate that but I was referring to which Magic and Larry doco James was talking about

[@timelesscoaching]

I wish others would do reactions like you. You actually paid attention to what you saw and heard and had very intelligent things to say and you're funny. As for this Lebron thing. The only advantage Lebron had over Larry was his body. Other than that. Better shooter =LB / Better passer= LB / Better rebounder =LB / Better defender / close, but bird never took plays off. Most importantly Heart, Brains and Clutch and it's not even close, Bird with the win.

[@tirteo]

I'm a big Larry Bird fan. I may have seen more than 20 videos reaction to his Ultimate Mixtape and I must confess yours is the best one. You're so natural, open minded and respectful. And I'm not saying this because you praise Larry, most youtubers reacting to this video also praise him, but because you act from the bottom of your heart and because you know the game very well and this way you can appreciate how good Larry was.

[@S.A.M.O.]

Got to grow up in Boston watching this man. Without a doubt my favorite player of all time. The man came back against the Pacers with a broken face. Unreal.

[@robertseverin1773]

There's multiple quotes from jordan that he learned the art of trash talking opponents from bird

[@rgreen1107]

Bro , 10k hits in one day ! That’s how much love Basketball fans have for Larry Bird !

[@venetoaward]

Larry has a simple nickname: Legend. That says it all! Definitely Top 5! The left handed game was actually 47/14/11 and he scored 22 with his left hand. After the game he said "I'm saving the right one for the Lakers". Since you're a coach you should react to "The unique skills that made Larry Bird a GOAT candidate" it's a very good analysis of his playstyle, maybe with your son!

[@lynnhoffmann247]

27 left handed 👍🏼

[@aakla]

I watched another video that said he practiced the left hand shot for Michael Cooper. It eventually became part of his arsenal. The left hand game, it sounds like it was the first game he used it.

[@venetoaward]

@@aakla I saw him use his left hand in college, he always practiced it

[@aakla]

@@venetoaward ahh ok, I thought the left hand game might have been where it started. My bad

[@docbearmb]

@@lynnhoffmann247 In 3 Quarters.

[@roscoepcoltrane23]

For those of us who know,he’s not underrated but for Lebron fans who don’t know any better yeah he might be underrated. I’d take Bird all day long over Lebron. No disrespect to Lebron fans. Lebron’s great just not Larry Bird great.

[@jeremiahrose4681]

Larry would wipe the court with Lebron.

[@bmaxime8771]

Lebron himself said Larry was the goat haha

[@katestotler9565]

Absolutely!!

[@monkeybusiness9424]

Larry Bird would be better than Bron if it wasn't for injuries, given the 10 or 11 seasons of elite basketball given from Bird that doesn't beat 17 seasons of MVP play, Lebron also played in 2 completely different era's, a slower paced slasher/big oriented league and now a 3 Point, fast paced, guard dominated league, Bird is 100% top 5 and in my opinion Top 4 but he's not better than Lebron

[@Matt-416]

@@monkeybusiness9424 I respectfully disagree. Lebron is unbelievable. I'm not taking anything away from him. But consider the evolution of the sport. In Bird's era, the NBA had legit bone fractures on a regular basis. Not sprains and ambulances for rolled ankles. There were concussions from elbows that weren't fouled. The courts were run down, with lumpy floors and next to no financial interest. Players pushed through career ending injury and played. Bottom line, Bird could play against Lebron, today, but Lebron couldn't play against Bird then. It's the Tom Brady-Joe Montana and Bobby Orr-Wayne Gretzky, or even the Muhammad Ali-Rocky Marciano type of factor... or paradox. Rules were looser for the the gameplay. Then gameplay was sacrificed for entertainment. Now... It's all rules and fear of injury. How many game altering fouls were completely bullshit? Or dramatic dives to feign absolute agonizing pain only to heroically return minutes later? Bird played with a concussion, broken cheek and orbital bone... Broken feet, and eventually disintegrating vertebrae and ligaments ripping away from his shin and feet bones.... Yet still held his own and instilled visceral fear in....what 7 or 8 first pick Hall of Famers? Who all consider him as the best? I'm definitely not saying he is the goat, but he'd crush Lebron. Bird redefined the sport and made the NBA what it is... Or was. Consider 3 decades of incredible medical advancements, much tighter runes, and completely update courts... completely leveled, tuned boards, and air conditioning... Lebron is great, just not Larry Bird great.

[@jeffdetmer4681]

Hey Van. Larry Bird played through injuries that todays players would never even try to do. His back was so mangled the last several years that he once spent a night in traction just so he could play the next days game. Tough as nails. Never backed down. Isiah Thomas said that if you put him, Magic , Jordan and Bird in a room together, the guy who would walk out was Bird. Nobody ever been as clutch. Pat Riley was asked once who he would want taking the last shot. He said game on the line Jordan. My life on the line Bird. The thing people don't see when they compare (supposed) GOATS is that they try to compare Larry with maybe one guy who was a great passer, and one guy who was a great shooter. One guy who played great Defense and like that. Larry matched up with all those guys in what they did best and was better that most of them in the things they didn't or don't do well. One thing for sure all the years I have watched BB I have never seen anyone with Larry's heart. Larry said there will be another Larry Bird some day and Magic said no there will never be another Larry Bird. To show how much people thought of him Van, his retirement celebration happened on a night when there was no game. They filled the Boston Garden to capacity on a night when there was nothing else going on there. No game. No concert, Nothing. Great job Van!!

[@joesmo9671]

One on one, Lebron beats Larry. However, Lebron vs Larry with 8 other guys out there, Larry is the GOAT. Nobody and I mean nobody knew how to use his teammates and opponents better than Larry. He could manipulate all 9 other guys on the floor. Make them do what he wanted. Had to watch him to understand. Most of the guys he played against didn't even understand it. It's why they were all puzzled and in awe of his greatness. They didn't understand. Magic was close but only in the open floor. Bird was way better in the half court. Just watch that play in the video with Isiah taking the ball in after Bird's shot was blocked. In an instant, he was already figuring out how to win. He left Lambeer open on purpose. Isiah had no idea he was being duped. The whole time, Bird was just waiting for the ball to go to Lambeer.

[@stevedem76]

Not only are you right, but Larry had that all worked out in his head in seconds. He was a basketball assassin. There is videotaped interviews of grown men who were afraid to be put in to guard him, after they tried to guard him earlier.

[@cecildison6788]

Bird in 86 would beat Lebron easily

[@BigYoesky]

Cap

[@rgreen1107]

Starting watching BIRD In the 1979 NCAA FINALS with INDIANA STATE Vs MICHIGAN STATE . A lot of the kids in 8th Grade were talking about the game that Monday at school and some guy named Larry Bird . Watched the game that night and been watching basketball ever since ! Iit’s still the most watched Basketball game in history … Larry Bird is the real GOAT !

[@blakerh]

I grew up in Indiana and I had never watched a college basketball game until Bird vs Magic. Everyone was talking about the Hick from French Lick!

[@johntarnowski9086]

Among everything else Larry Bird achieved he was MVP 3 years in a row

[@historianswag8517]

When Magic was diagnosed with HIV, he really fell from grace hard. That was a time when few people understood the disease the way we do now and everyone was afraid to even shake hands with him. No one really understood how it was contracted or how easily it could spread. But Larry Bird went out of his way to not only hug Magic but also to stand behind him and support him through all of it. The thing is they went at each other hard on the court and played for rival teams, but they earned each other's respect through their work ethics and level of skill. Magic still says that Larry was one of the main reasons he was able to keep playing basketball and was able to mentally move forward after his diagnosis. They have been close ever since.

[@RobwLPOC]

The one I loved was the media going to Dennis Rodman hoping to get some ridiculous sound bite and asked Rodman " what are your feelings having to play against Magic Johnson knowing that he's hiv-positive?" Rodman made the media feel like idiots for asking the question " well we're going to be playing basketball I won't be sharing any needles or having unprotected sex with him out there on the court so I don't have much to worry about do I?"

[@dfaust391]

They were close long before that. When magic went to birds family house and met his Birds mother, they might as well have been born brothers after that.

[@RobwLPOC]

@@dfaust391 Wasnt it when they were filming a TV commercial of them playing street ball in front of Larry's parents house? If I remember Larry's mom invited Magic to join them for lunch and Mama Bird won Johnson over. That was when Larry and Magic got talking realizing they had a lot in common.

[@desiolle2874]

@@RobwLPOC I think Bird's Mum's favourite player was Magic...lol...trolled her own boy!...you can see where Bird gets his head games from...

[@dfaust391]

@@RobwLPOC i think you are correct, the key point i remember is magic thought "where tha hell am i?" But when Birds mom cooked them food, magic knew that was his second mom from what and how she cooked. It made him feel more than welcome. I think without the other, they might not have been as great without the other to drive them.

[@rickbort7875]

Great Larry reaction! In regards to whether Michael Jordan was the biggest trash-talker, MJ admitted that he patterned his game after Bird's, learning how to psychologically damage the opposing team-. He stated "Larry Bird is the greatest trash talker and mind-game player of all time, he taught me EVERYTHING I know about getting in folks head" And another quote from Jordan when Bird retired- "Larry, I hear you're retiring, thank goodness. I'm glad, I'm tired of seeing your face. You brought a lot of sad memories for me, I enjoyed it and wish you a lot of luck and I think you had a great and wonderful career. You ruined a lot of my successful games against the Boston Celtics" And Bird used to trash talk MJ all of the time in their early games (Bird was undefeated 6-0 in the playoffs against Jordan).

[@shorttripfromcradletocript]

The thing about Bird and Magic's friendship/rivalry was the fact they were both of the same cloth. Fierce competitors, very, smart, while also being empathetic and compassionate people. Rare combination of traits and they are both quite unique.

[@irishgrl]

Larry snatched victory out of the jaws of defeat so many times….clutch gene. Killer instinct. Heart of a LION. ULTIMATE WARRIOR. Unselfish, playmaker, scoring assassin. I’ll take Larry Legend over EVERYONE. ALL DAY LONG. LARRY LEGEND IS MY TRUE GOAT 🐐

[@supasoulproductions]

The man played over half his career with a back injury that would have crippled most players. Constant pain.

[@jaysonraphaelmurdock8812]

Mostly because of him working on his mom's driveway and messing up his back.

[@F1rstWorldNomaD]

He won the league mvp the year *after* he messed up his back... That's kinda ridiculous. Was he even human?

[@supasoulproductions]

@@F1rstWorldNomaD Right?

[@lefrenchwithacbg4732]

And a "dead" finger...

[@fixer1972]

Don't forget he broke his (multiple) fingers playing baseball right before his rookie season and were never the same.

[@louisedodson78p67]

Loved watching your face during this, especially when you realized Larry's greatness!

[@Jet1ranger]

Magic and Bird! The hick form French Lick! Larry Legend. When he won that 3-point competition... He didn't even take off his warm-up jacket!

[@simplysimple7628]

The way you explain these players are spot on. Their moves and their thinking on that court is spot on. Larry received a pass and before that pass arrived he knew where it was going prior. His touch passes was art. His toughness is unmatched. The man was somethin else….. Truly miss those days maaaan They played like it was for their meals. Like they were being paid food not money. Hungry muthaz. No exaggeration.

[@johnreimold3745]

Bird’s shotfakes worked bc his jumper was automatic. You had to contest or it was in. The jabsteps worked bc if he got in the paint, you see how he could finish at the rim OR find any teammate if the defense collapsed and helped. Have your son watch Dominique Wilkins dunk highlights to understand how athletic Dominique was (Bird was destroying him in these highlights, he was the “someone else” on the jabstep). Then watch the 4th qtr of GAME 7 of the 1988 Eastern Conference Semifinals and his 4th qtr duel with Dominique with the season on the line; you’ll understand Larry’s will to win. Bird’s body was betraying him by then, but you can just see the greatness. Bird in his prime was better than Lebron in his. Lebron’s body held up much longer, he takes great care of it. It’s a toss up, depending on what you value more, higher peak or sustained peak. Bird’s best was better than Lebron’s best; That’s why I’d take Larry.

[@jaysonraphaelmurdock8812]

I agree with everything you said.

[@chrisbera7952]

Perfect analysis

[@irishgrl]

No lies detected.

[@dongiovanni6796]

Yes. That playoff dual between Bird and Wilkins was the greatest NBA game I've ever seen. Surrounded by other great players (the other Celtics and Hawks were no slouches) Bird and Wilkins elevated to titan level, blow for blow. Amazing.

[@McDanielRanch]

The hick from deerlick ya he's the goat. And in 1/2 the time of all he's compared with.

[@7wnb]

Larry joe bird is the greatest SF of all time. IQ, unselfishness, drive, confidence commitment & killer instinct are unparalleled. He always played hurt, no “load management” nights off. He was 23-11 vs Michael Jordan including a 6-0 playoff record against MJ 🤷‍♂️

[@historianswag8517]

Knowing how good he is and how good Michael and Magic both were, it makes the Dream Team just seem that much more ridiculous. Could you imagine even trying to field a team against that level of athletes? That has to be one of the greatest talent level assortment of players ever in the history of any sport

[@mannyneva1760]

The Celtics had a much better team, swap MJ and bird and the lakers and pistons don’t win 💩….context matters

[@captaindeath87]

@@mannyneva1760 when Larry Bird took over the Celtics in 1979 or 80 I can't remember he literally had the second-worst team in the NBA he brought them to a championship within two years with the same team what's Michael Jordan's excuse and that's before he had all those Hall of Famers on his team and to be honest I don't think Robert Parish and those guys would have been Hall of Famers without bird he always made his teammates better he knew how to use the hand that was dealt to him and that's another thing Larry Bird always had accountability for his teammates he made sure whoever played on the Celtics were going to play at a high level he didn't want no scrubs on his team

[@mannyneva1760]

@@captaindeath87 it wasn’t the same Celtics team stop lying on here. Bird couldn’t fk with MJ period

[@captaindeath87]

@@mannyneva1760 I can tell with you saying that you don't know nothing about that situation or the topic you're like everyone else is just being told what is and what isn't without going and figuring it out for yourself you should read up on something before you outright say what you don't know nothing about Larry did have that same team for two years and they did go to the championship and Larry Bird was the MVP while Michael Jordan was in the league also Michael Jordan learned a lot from Larry Bird he said so himself he's always thought highly of Larry Bird so as a MJ fan you don't know much about that either you need a touch-up on your history of basketball

[@nationalnesteggsolutions2335]

Bro, totally dope reaction vid! I liked it in the beginning when you were all flexin on Bron Bron being the GOAT....THEN you started watching the vid. I can tell you've played ball before and because of that you HAD to put some respect on Bird's name....you had to, because you've got integrity and you're keepin it 100! But yeah, Bird was sick. Everybody who played with or against him, and I'm talking HOF'ers had nothin to say except that Bird was crazy next level good....even the GOAT himself, MJ! So yeah, Larry's...well, a legend. 'Nuff said. Keep grindin bro!!

[@dbsti3006]

That "jab step" or step back, he did throughout his career consistently. I watched the Celtics religiously in the 1980s and early 90s. Bird would always rush down court and stop on a dime at the 3pt line, then shoot as the opponents were falling down in front of him. If his opportunity wasn't there to shoot, then Bird would make some insane pass around the defenders. That guys court awareness was amazing.

[@0fsgiven442]

Larry invented the jab step. That's why he was breaking so many ankles.... nobody had ever seen it before.

[@thomass5169]

@@0fsgiven442 If that is so, speaks to his genius.

[@bonnieplasha4684]

When Larry broke his cheek bone, the trainer also said he had a concussion. When the Celtics went down in points and the game was on the line, Larry faked out the trainer in the dressing room so he could run out and lead his team to the win. The man never stopped coming. Also, saw Michael Jordan interview where he states that he learned trash talking from Larry.

[@amliv77]

Larry's point per games could have been higher but he liked to get the other players involved in the game, he was a real team player

[@jimmyboy131]

And he still averaged over 24 ppg for his career. The man was truly a legend.

[@dr.andersonsghost4315]

His point average would have been higher if he hadn't tried to save some money by re-doing her driveway by himself. That's how he hurt his back, by paving his mother's driveway. That's the most Larry Bird thing ever.

[@kristalmacleod3004]

I believe that' BUT You do what needs doing to Win . Larry Legend LOST but he Never Ever QuiT'

[@nonombre7159]

The best thing is hearing all the Bird stories that other great players from that era would tell about him. Nothing but Bird givin em shit.

[@vintrovariety]

Bird has you grinning like a teenager in love. It's adorable. 😂😂

[@jamesburns8827]

If you are picking your starting 5 all time, there's a million guys that you could pick and a lot of them would be acceptable. Basically all the parts are interchangeable, except for Larry Bird. If he's not on your all time starting 5, I don't know how to talk to you. Complete game player, no offensive or defensive liabilities as well as a great passing game, and that's before you even mention them 3-pointers.

[@cirrustate8674]

My all time starting 5 is Wilt Chamberlain at C, Tim Duncan at PF, Larry Bird at SF, Michael Jordan at SG, and Magic Johnson at PG.

[@jamesburns8827]

@@cirrustate8674 yeah that sounds about right. There's a lot of combinations of guys. Wilt, Kareem or Shaq at the 5. theres argument Kobe quietly I think John Stockton doesn't get enough credit. There's also the Bill Russell debacle. But I think the starting five that you just laid out is probably As Good As It Gets.

[@cirrustate8674]

@@jamesburns8827 The REAL question for me is, who would I choose as the other 7, to make a full team. I haven't been able to answer that, yet.

[@jamesburns8827]

@@cirrustate8674 I'll tell you one thing I would find a way to work Chris Cornell into the lineup. Lol a Goat is a goat my friend!!

[@jaysonraphaelmurdock8812]

Don't forget about Hakeem.

[@sandyleewhite]

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!

[@mckill32]

Larry Joe Bird was a straight up killer! Growing up 20 miles north of Boston during that time we lived for Bird vs Magic. Those games were epic battles with multiple hall of famers on each team. Great games and memories!

[@slayer2112w1]

I lived about 15 miles north of Boston during that Era.

[@andrewsawyer1375]

Now you need to watch Making the Case, Larry Bird. Also, about his injuries & how he handled them to survive playing.

[@davidmacy411]

I remember another story about how he had a bet with the Madison Square Garden janitor for 100 that he couldnt hit a 3 pt off the glass from the corner. When the game was in the final minutes, he was reminded of the bet, which he forgot most of the game, quickly went out on the next possession and did it.

[@charlesking4780]

Magic and Bird was the best rivalry ever and a great friendship.

[@shane7073]

Jordan copied Larry’s trash talking abilities and how effective it was so he incorporated it. Jordan admits it himself

[@Slatrelle]

@Rheumattica Nah, Larry Bird wasn't a troll, he talked shit then followed through, then made his opponent feel like shit. I don't think Bird was ever humorous about talking shit.

[@Slatrelle]

@Rheumattica I have a feeling you don't know anything about the dictionary, or any other book for that matter. "Hi, I'm Larry Bird, Im gonna dazzle you with light hearted jokes and cheer. Don't worry about me zoning in looking pissed off while I school you all on the court, It's all fun and games you silly sally's"

[@timisthename]

Best trash talker all time!! On a Christmas Day game he told the defender I have a gift for you and shot a 3 in his face and says “ marry Christmas mf”

[@timisthename]

@Rheumattica ohh okay thank you for the correction but still great shit talk thoo

[@wyndsock1209]

Larry Legend was the ... single...toughest SOB to ever hit the court. He played in pain for YEARS and still crushed it!

[@amberburris5674]

Straight fire! So excited you have started looking into Larry :)

[@donjenkins3861]

I'm from Wichita Kansas, home of The Shockers! I was fortunate to see Larry as a junior in college and in his senior year. The first time we beat him, but in his senior year nobody could stop The Sycamores, except Magic. Fun fact, two of the 3 players on Atlanta's team celebrating Larry's 60 pt game were ex Shockers! Antoine Carr and Cliff Livingston. 🤗🤔😎

[@skoon002]

MTXE

[@darkomtobia]

The amazing thing is the actual condition he played in...mangled a knuckle before he was a pro, back so trashed he had to do long stretch sessions before hitting the court, etc. To me, him and Rodman had that Pete Rose style hustle.

[@marekmirski7201]

Larry Bird was simply awesome and unique. If one is attempting to select a GOAT in the NBA - considering such players as MJ and Lebron, remember that it is a team sport. A GOAT must enable his teammates to be their best as well. Bird was truly transformational as a team player. The Celtics had their worst team performance in their history the year prior to Larry's arrival to Boston - only 29 wins. With Bird as their only significant addition to their line-up, they won 61 games his first year (+32), and the following year with McHale & Parrish won the NBA Championship. Despite his "superlative" individual stats, MJ was not transformational, but only added to his team's performance by his singular action - and in fact his play often reduced the potential of his team mates. MJ arrived to a weak Bulls team to be sure, but it would be 4 yrs before the Bulls got to .500, and only after Pippen and Grant arrived did the Bulls make their move upward. Further proof comes later when MJ "retired" to play baseball, and the Bulls did not suffer a major downturn (55 wins to the previous year's 57), with Pippen having a better year than ever now without MJ. Larry B gets my nod for all he could do in all situations, plus his unbelievable positive impact on the team as a whole.

[@angelabarazzone7899]

Founder of the 50/40/ 90 club. Consecutive 3 MVP’s and 3 point contest. Check out his defense stats too. His retirement, there was no game and they sold out the stadium.

[@stmbtsodapop2513]

Man! Really like your show, great Entertaining to watch and honest comments. I don't get into the goat labeling to much, but I will say a difference for me is attitude and a will to win. Both Larry and James have good skills for sure, but Larry's never gives up on the floor, James flopping performances and leaving a game before it is over (all by his own Initiative) lowers my view of him.

[@bradp5848]

Your assessment feels spot on to me. The thing that separates them is the approach towards to the game and afterward as well. Larry's loudest critic was himself and he was his team's biggest cheerleader. Those that say he wouldn't translate to today's game forget how crowded the court was in those days. The rulebook and officiating encouraged physical play, the 3pt line was new, and the court was squished, there were no touch fouls. The league had 8 fewer teams and the talent more concentrated, multiple hall of famers in every arena. LeBron's legacy is problematic and difficult to judge. He has underachieved is glaring areas but also overachieved in ways that aren't given enough credit. Taking 3 different franchises to title is unreal. Bringing a title back to Cleveland is legendary (for people from Cleveland). Demanding personal decisions and then critizing and laying blame on the players and schemes of your own design is unforgivable. He will most likely have more hardware and records when it's all said earning and deserving each. But when it's all said and done LeBron also has his blemishes and total failures as well. In my opinion, solely, the hardware and records of LeBron puts him first in any conversation but last atop a short list among a pantheon of basketball greats. I won't knock anyone who disagrees, in fact I will defend their choice. If there was a pick up game chosen amongst the top 10 in their primes, LeBron would probably be my last choice if I was drafting to build the best team(keyword). If you would draft him earlier then we would both be psyched which is a damn good outcome for everyone.

[@jamesmiller5331]

Yeah I like how his eyes look at the video like wow I wonder if mine look like that 👀

[@olemissreb7550]

First off I want to tell you how much I enjoy your videos, it's fun to see the genuine enjoyment on your face whether its Hank jr. singing about family traditions or Larry Bird embarrassing grown NBA men. Keep up the great stuff👍

[@phantomimages7673]

Back story to his left handed game against Portland, it was the 86 season, Celtics went 50 wins with only 1 loss at home that season, and it was to Portland. When they went on the road to Portland he was seeking revenge and got it. He scored 27 points left handed after telling all the media he was going to shoot left handed for at least 3 quarters. When the game got tight he switched back the right hand for the 4th quarter, he ended the game with 47 points and hit a buzzer beater to seal the win. Bird is the most clutch player in the history of the league…period! Bird was the only player who Jordan never got revenge against….during regular season match ups Bird had 17 wins to Jordan 11 wins, in the play offs Bird was 6 and 0 against Jordan. Who else can say they got the best of Jordan? 3 rings, 3 back to back to back MVP’s, won the first 3 three point contests in a row, won coach of the year, and executive of the year as well.

[@jalkabre5904]

I live in Cleveland, appreciate what LeBron did here, plus in the day I was a Laker/ Magic fan.....Bird was the real deal, and LeBron isn't even close.

[@bradlindsey5056]

Love and respect to EVERY BROTHER, regardless of race, out there doing his thing and trying to be the best he can be! Love your reactions, Van. Peace and love from the GREAT STATE OF TEXAS!

[@citizenbrain8065]

This was my era and as a Knicks fan there were teams I didn't want to face on an away game like the Bulls or the Pacers but I never wanted to face the Celtics. Especially in the playoffs. Larry finds a way.

[@randymeyer6482]

My brother was a Knick fan from the 60s, and I was a Celtic fan, also from the 60s. The last time we played each other, I forced him down behind the backboard and he beat me with that same shot that Larry made, only he did it years before Larry did it. I called me bro and told him he didn't beat me cause it was an illegal shot...in all fairness to myself, that was before I realized I could shoot...Russell and D was my game. My bro lived in CA and ran with the Lakers summer league dudes.

[@richarddambrosio4044]

I(

[@staytuned2L337]

"Charge that to my mind, not my heart" wow Pops...legit, these little nuggets are a big piece of why I'm here forever. 🙏🏽

[@ZZZELCH]

The greatest of all time

[@jeffrichards1537]

Larry Birds trash talk was different than Jordan im sure. Jordan told them they couldn't stop him. Bird told them the play and then ran the play down their throats

[@jackastor5265]

Larry Bird is truly one of the greatest basketball players ever, Top 5 for most people that understand basketball history. He was a generational talent and would torment the current league, he would absolutely torment them. Larry was the founding member of the 50/40/90 club. He would fit right in with this skill based shooting era. Larry is the ORIGINAL sharpshooter. He averaged more rebounds per game at small forward, 10.0, than Patrick Ewing did who was a legit center. Larry was a savage, complete with the clutch gene.

[@meminustherandomgooglenumbers]

In case nobody mentioned it, the buzzer beating steal was actually the winning play of game 5 of the Eastern Conference Championship with the series tied 2-2.

[@bug-lf4sg]

Plus he stole from Isiah Thomas ... not exactly a scrub.

[@onthe66]

That's such a great point. Some players are selfish with the ball so fakes dont work as well. if you're selfless and feed your team, your opponent knows that and can be faked easier. Good little bit of wisdom, thank you

[@okscribbles9556]

Bird and Magic were on rival teams when Bird was at Indiana. They were brutal to each other in college. But they became so close out of pure respect for each other. Both great ballers

[@falcon215]

His passing was so extraordinary because he had an uncanny ability to know where everyone was on the court at any given moment. Next level stuff. At the risk of sounding arrogant, I stopped watching basketball after this era because I knew I would never see this kind of playing again.

[@suzieredfoxfur6982]

He had he 360 degree eyes. Saw everything and everybody on the court at all times...Especially on the Garden Parquet....

[@gavinholt5428]

He changed the way the team played, got the team moving and passing way more than they use too. Solid team man who could and did do it all.

[@msw8966]

Larry always says that magic is one of the best he's ever seen and he's unbelievable. I think that about sums it up for how these two men respect each other going both ways.

[@nicholaspietrzak9992]

People say Larry wasn’t one to dunk but the second you take some time to go on KZbin you immediately see him dunking.

[@MooreCEJr]

This is not mentioned in the Larry Bird's video, but Larry's retirement ceremony, the fans that you see at the beginning was not a game night. Larry did not have a retirement one year of playing in cities retirement tour. It was just this night; one and done. The fans were packed and it was standing room only. Larry the Legend. Also is to note when Larry "broke ankles" he waited till the opponent got back up before he shot the ball, adding insult to the embarrassment. He was a bad man . :)

[@bigkw1568]

Always got to respect a young Buck doing his homework ... Making the case for Larry Bird and Larry Bird's rookie season are more great vids also .. In my humble opinion Larry Legend is the greatest SF ever ..

[@EthaKidd1]

Larry and them guys back then played differently back then. They played harder and with more intensity. Larry was a legend even back then.☘️☘️☘️

[@paulb4604]

It's hard to overstate the impact that Larry and Magic had on the NBA. I don't know if there would be an NBA today if those two hadn't come along together and breathed life into a boring game. Watching that mixtape video brought one thought to my mind - How fast the NBA was back then. It was total run 'n gun with the showtime Lakers and Bird's Celtics. And when the two teams played each other, espeically in the NBA Finals, it was appointment television every game. Both Larry & Magic were all time greats, but I think their rivalry on the court and friendship off the court took both of their games to a completely different level.

[@canecasavettes85]

That “scoop” was on Kareem Abdul Jabbar, and that second fall down from the “jab step” was Dom Wilkins. Hall of fame guys!🤣🤣🤣 Great reaction! I like that smile that Bird brought to your face!

[@rasapplepipe]

You brought up some pretty good points about confidence plus selflessness and how that helps him to fake out his opponents.

[@HistoryBuff1973]

I love Xavier McDaniel's story about Larry Bird...it's hilarious....also, Bird's game where the Hawks Bench got fined for laughing and falling on the ground. Great video my friend. God Bless

[@tinapenix1025]

He can score anywhere on the court with every kind of shot and no one has been more clutch under pressure in big games Has to be best in game winning shots. Also was double digit rebounder.

[@gregghelmberger]

Bird was astonishing, but one of the things that made him so great is that he was playing in the same league at the same time as Magic Johnson, who was just as astonishing. Celtics-Lakers games were things of legend. I'd strongly recommend watching highlights of Magic too. ETA: I didn't know you were Jojo's dad. He's great too!

[@latorgator23]

"If I had to choose a player to take a shot to save a game I'd choose Michael Jordan.. If I had to choose a player to take a shot to save my life... I'd take Larry Bird." - Pat Riley

[@martinhenderson8636]

Dude, Larry - Magic ... Celtics - Lakers ... 80's ... GREATEST RIVALRY IN ANY SPORT EVER! It was amazing.

[@zombiegoatt4282]

My favorite Bird story is between him and Craig Ehlo. In the first half Ehlo decided to trash talk Bird telling him he's 1 out 10 shooting that's defense. Bird simply said there's a 2nd half. Ehlo said Bird came out in the 2nd half and made 10 straight shots on him. Bird's last words to Ehlo was is your Mom watching now that's cold.

[@ObiWanCanubi]

I love the look on your face throughout the video. You know in your heart as this video continues that Bird is a legit GOAT. Bird and Magic was the greatest one up challenge in sports.

[@jeffreyross71]

Larry bird is so far ahead of lebron in every way except dunking and flopping. Larry played the game with his head. Larrys basketball iq is second to none.

[@edwardrichard2561]

He played with so much heart. It is what today’s game is lacking

[@ebenclukey7293]

Larry didn't just talk trash to opposing players. He talked trash to opposing coaches. I was lucky enough to be at a lot of those games in the eighties, third row. Bird was so good he was bored. He had a habit of regularly telling the guys guarding him the play they were about to run. My brother and I still talk about how it seemed like we were watching the Harlem Globe Trotters. The passing on the Celtics teams in that era was surgical. Boston fans are known for being loud and rowdy, but they appreciate greatness. We always wanted to win it all, but we gave Magic and the Lakers the respect they deserved. Except for Kurt F'n Rambis. And Bill Laimbeer! Punk ass b!t@h!!

[@philiom7724]

Larry Bird was unreal. There's never been anyone like him since.

[@RonnieG]

That playoff game he fell against the pacers. Broke his orbital bone. Concussed. Had double vision. Watching from the locker room as the game slips away. Doctors said he was done for the SEASON. He sips a beer, sneaks back in and subs in to win it. Look at him crouch down immediately to sub in. He knew he didn't have much time b4 the docs stopped him. Also look up his dad. No wonder he was tough!

[@CRUISERJ1]

Very astute commentary by you on Larry bird being an unselfish payer with confidence, he played the right way as did Magic and all of the greats who have won championships. The team wins Championships. My father attended The University of San Francisco and played back in the day with both K.C. Jones and Bill Russel. I was fortunate enough to have spent some personal time with Coach K.C. Jones just a couple years after this time of the Celtics run. K.C. was coaching the Supersonics later in his carrier as a coach. I have many Larry Bird Stories told to me from his coach K.C. at the time. Great respects.

[@markbell4982]

I feel for any basketball fan who wasn't around to see those Laker/Celtic games

[@ldybozz]

I was. Just didn't watch. I'm more of a NFL fan. I remember my male relatives watching the games. They are hard core Lakers fans. Getting all crazy. Whenever the Lakers played the Celtics. The vibe was anger and awe. Because of Larry. He used to remind me of J.R. Ewing character. From that old tv show Dallas. I just watched a Larry Bird video recently. Because I wanted to see why my relatives would react the way they did. I must admit I was impressed. I wish I would have watched the games back then. Larry's a beast.

[@jeremiahrose4681]

Huge Celtics fan back in the day the reason BIRD! Period. My favorite player in the NBA ever.

[@bjsmith6187]

This video doesn’t show it, but at Bird’s retirement, Magic was wearing a Celtics shirt under his Lakers jacket. Given the rivalry, that’s the ultimate respect.

[@NoName-fx9zi]

My favorite Larry Bird game was against the Portland Trailblazers during 91-92 regular season. The Celtics were old, worn out, Bird had really bad feet and lower back disc problems and missed a lot of games. The Blazers were the 2nd best team in the NBA, led by Clyde Drexler, Terry Porter. Larry refused to sit out and dropped 49pts14reb12assists over Drexler's 41. Check out the highlights on it.

[@lashutterbug]

The players on the Hawks' bench were indeed punished by coach Mike Fratello for celebrating Bird's performance. According to Doc Rivers, at practice the following day Fratello repeatedly ran that segment on video over and over again, getting madder and madder every time he saw the bench jump up.

[@mrbill-fk3in]

I was in high school when Bird and Magic were in their heyday...it was great watching them go at it...I was a huge Dr. J fan back then...the way I understand it is that Bird and Magic genuinely despised each other till they were asked to do a Converse ad together and Bird invited Magic to his mom's house for lunch...Bird's mom told Magic that he was her fave player...so, after that, they became good friends.

[@jimmeyer9106]

hahaha the call with your son and the clips of his face were priceless.

[@cryptozoomauler5505]

LFR Family, I subbed. Not just because: Oh, it's Larry Bird. No, but because you are a GOOD reactor and I can't wait to see what else you react to. Keep up the good work!

[@yambo59]

One video I know you would really enjoy reacting to highlights the best passing ever seen by this era of Celtics, its called: ("86 Celtics Tribute, The Beautiful Game") - the passing is truly Elite and really stood out in this era, its truly a must see.

[@MuddyPoppins]

I seen you tear up… I understand. It’s just so damn beautifully amazing.

[@stevenphillips6127]

Wuhan LeBron would've retired if he took a header like Larry did when he fractured his cheek then came back out to finish the game. Dude falls down like a baby if you sneeze near him.

[@Ironmanpwnz]

wahhh wahhh look at you crying about lebron

[@philscott3759]

@@Ironmanpwnz The only one crying is you, though.

[@jeffrichards1537]

I love at end of video when magic was giving Larry the jersey and he turned away to keep from crying.