Lebron James Fan Reacts to Larry Bird's Ultimate Mixtape!

[@marykuettner752]

Bird is my favorite player. There is a whole documentary called A Courtship of Rivals about Bird and Magic. Love them both. Magic has always said Bird was the better player. His accomplishments are college player of the year, Rookie of the Year, 12 time Allstars ( He only played 6 games of one season) so All Star every year he was fairly healthy) 3 consecutive MVPs but in between 81 and 87 he got 67% of the MVP votes. Three times defense team. After he retired as a player he was coach of the year and executive of the year also. His trash talk was in a low voice telling players what he was going to do before he did it. His shooting is what he is remembered for winning the three point contest the three years he was in it and telling people he was going to before hand. His passing and teamplay was among the best and as far as clutch? Pat Riley said if the game is on the line I want Jordan but if my life was on the line I want Bird. Best player is hard to judge but the player I take first in the draft? Bird all day, everyday.

[@CVTECK1]

I'll be watching the doc soon

[@nanook8721]

Agreed, ‘Bird and Magic: a Courtship of Rivals’ was riveting, honest, sentimental and thoroughly entertaining.

[@msw8966]

@@CVTECK1 you got to watch that doc it will all come into perspective for you along with making the case Larry Bird.

[@CVTECK1]

@@msw8966 it's on my list for sure.

[@alanpeterson4939]

Agreed. If you want to know the story of Bird and Magic, watch the documentary.

[@jeffreyross71]

Larry bird has the highest basketball IQ of all time. He is second to none.

[@MDP673NJ1]

💯 fact unmatched! With that IQ he elevated everybody else's game. GOAT in my opinion. Best clutch player of all time followed by Jordan they were cold as ice and opposition paid the price.

[@manny4552]

Yeah I think your right

[@bonnieplasha4684]

I agree 💯! But it was different when DJ played with the Celtics. I'm not being disrespectful to McHale, Ainge, Parish, etc. But Larry and DJ had a psychic link. They always knew just exactly where the other one was...or would be!

[@leebrandt8597]

Since you asked, first I'll say that I'm a Lakers fan. Always have and always will be... but I have Larry Bird as #1 all time. I hated him during the 80s, but since time has moved on, I now recognize his greatness. Yes he was in the league 13 years, but he only played 12 of them because he was injured in 89. His greatness was accomplished in his first 9 years in the league when his body allowed him to play. His last 3 years he just wasn't the same guy due to his back injuries. So in 9 years he did everything that is considered legendary. He has the highest midrange shooting percentage at 51%, which is better than Jordan 49% and KD 45%. He was the definition of the boogeyman in the league, making players fear having to play against him. Plus all the other things he could do like passing, rebounding and clutch shooting.

[@CVTECK1]

He did a lot only a few years and with all the Injuries

[@jalkabre5904]

Sames as me, I was a Lakers fan during the 80's. I didn't like Bird but respected the hell out of him and cursed him many times. I am also a Cleveland fan since live in this town. Without a doubt in my mind, Bird is a superior player than LeBron. He definitely is more clutch and has 2x the heart of LBJ. Bird is in the top 3 of all time, maybe at 2. It's tough to judge, but Jordan and Chamberlain are the other two.

[@meminustherandomgooglenumbers]

Some of his most legendary games were in his last two years when his back was already wrecked. The playoff game when he came back with a fractured skull for one, also the Portland game where he scored 7 points to come back from 5 down in the final 18 seconds of regulation to send it to OT - both of those games were after he had to start lying on the floor when he was subbed out, instead of sitting on the bench.

[@chefg_murder1191]

Founder of the 50/40/90 club. Him and Magic saved Basketball, and the only player with a MVP, Coach of the year, and Executive of the year. And the MVP'S were consecutive 3 in a row, like Russell and Wilt...

[@charlesking4780]

I've been a Laker fan since the seventies so I'm biased and I have to put Kareem at number 1 but I give Bird a slight Edge over Magic at number 2. I hated bird when he was playing but you can't help but respect him he was as good as anybody ever in his prime.

[@kleenextoes430]

I watched Larry’s entire career and he looks like exactly what he was: the greatest all-around player of all-time.

[@JustMeLostInTheUniverse]

"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 This right here sums it all up.

[@chrisbr1969]

Exactly!

[@maxbrazil3712]

James Worthy said "I'd much rather guard Michael Jordan than Larry Bird. Jordan made you look slow, but Bird made you look stupid"

[@CVTECK1]

Both are great and i rather sit on the bench then guard those two lol

[@judyhuurman1237]

FYI - Michael Jordan was 0-6 in the playoffs versus Larry Bird in his career.

[@LJA46]

As an 80's Laker fan, I'm tired of people saying Bird wasn't athletic. My God, the under the basket reverse slam dunk is about as athletic as you can get. And as far as fast; I believe I saw him outrunning players on several occasions.

[@SingleTax]

Exactly. Try doing all of the amazing things Bird did on the court *without* being "athletic" or "fast." Good luck.

[@Am3r1Kan0]

I think he was smarter about how he moved around the court and didnt need to tire himself out in order to dominate the game. He was a very good team player and really knew how to approach every situation efficiently because he had good awareness and used his head better than anyone else. He was athletic only when he needed to be.

[@LJA46]

@@Am3r1Kan0 And more athletic than people gave him credit for.

[@MrTacos33]

What made Bird so successful was the combination of his basketball IQ and his understanding of body positioning. You don’t have to be all-world athletic, you just have to know how to move the defense to where you want them to be. From there, in my opinion, he is the greatest all-around player ever. Outside of agility he had no weaknesses. Shooting, passing, IQ, mentally tough, hustle, underrated defense he really had it all

[@rmweidner7596]

Another key component in Bird's success was the fact that he was SO accurate with his passing that anyone defending him couldn't assume that he was faking them out. I've seen so many folks commenting about how so-and-so could have possibly been faked out when commenting on these compilation videos, but they all seem to overlook just how good he was at getting the ball to his teammates. ...and let's be honest: Larry leveraged the living daylights out of that fact to sell every fake-out he delivered.

[@mikegoodwin2386]

@@rmweidner7596 I said something similar recently on another Larry Bird reaction. The reason he could make people look silly with those fakes was because they knew he was such a great passer. They had to respect that fake.

[@manny4552]

A good rebounder too

[@bronsongetseven7326]

Larry Bird is a 10....The most well rounded player in history. He's the true G.O.A.T.

[@irishgrl]

1000%

[@2TRUTH4SAUCE2]

I love Larry but that's nonsense.

[@angiewilliams8472]

@@2TRUTH4SAUCE2 NNNNOOOOOOO,.. THE FFFUUUCCCKKK IT AIN'T!!!

[@joeb8114]

If you watch this its hard to say he's not top 3 ever.

[@bronsongetseven7326]

@@angiewilliams8472 You tell him Angie.

[@leerobertson868]

I have Larry in my top 3 and just remember he played through his career injured. His back was a complete mess, achilles surgery and had a finger on his shooting hand that was very disfigured

[@cozenw3236]

Magic also said at Bird’s retirement: “Larry said, one day, they’ll be another Larry Bird. But Larry, there will never, ever, be another Larry Bird.”

[@oldben6086]

Only man to win RoY, MVP, Finals MVP, Coach of the Year, and Executive of the Year. Founding member of the 60/40/90 club (field goal %, three point %, and free throws %). 3x MVP in consecutive years. Only others to do that are Wilt and Russel.

[@CALVINLNIKONT]

When Larry hit his head on the floor, he broke his eye socket/check bone and had double vision for the rest of the game but, after being out about 10 minutes, he came back and won the game. Larry injured his back and sometimes after games, he had to spend the night at the hospital in traction. I was watching the game when Larry's head hit the floor and everyone thought he was done for the night. When Larry came back out to play, the fans just about tore the roof off of the building. It gave me chills!!! Larry Bird is the G.O.A.T.!!!

[@SpinningToWin]

As I recall he said he was seeing double baskets and in an interview later said he was just aiming for the space in between them

[@PixelPro-4000]

Bird was the most clutch of all time, followed closely by Jordan, then a bunch of space, then everybody else.

[@daylearceneaux4083]

I agree. I watched both their careers and I tell people the same thing all the time.

[@manny4552]

Then John havlicek then Jerry west then Reggie Miller...then a huge gap in clutch plays and shots

[@redrick8900]

Jordon isn't clutch. I saw that guy blow a playoff game by dribbling off his own feet with nobody guarding him. Scott Paget is more clutch.

[@mikedougherty1491]

From 80’-87’ he won MVP 3 times, and came in 2nd the other 4 years. That’s insane.

[@joeunis318]

He did have 3 MVPs in a row but....he did also have 7 MVP runner ups

[@meminustherandomgooglenumbers]

Plus rookie of the year. So in his 13 seasons, 11 of them were either MVP winner, MVP runner up, or ROTY. And the other two years, he had to lie on the floor when subbed out, instead of sitting on the bench like normal.

[@joeunis318]

@@meminustherandomgooglenumbers this is exactly what people think and have no clue to actually what he is. He stands side by side with MJ on my My Rushmore

[@zootytv]

He was competing with Magic, Mike, Isiah and the HOFers on his own team for MVP.

[@williamhendrix2053]

No 2nd ever courts

[@Gashouse69]

I'll tell you why Bird is #1 for me personally. Aside from his stats holding there own against other "Goat" players, when the game is on the line and you need a basket with time running out, there is nobody I would rather have taking that shot than Larry Legend, period. That is why I put him at #1 above the likes of Magic and yes even Jordan.

[@amberburris5674]

The GOAT in my humble opinion! Let's go....

[@CVTECK1]

Let's gooooooooooooooooo!!!

[@toehead410]

Larry is easily top 5, arguably top 3. He founded the 50 40 90 club and did it twice. Killer rebounder. Amazing court awareness. Badass trash talker. Guts of a champion. Best player of the 1980s decade.

[@seancotter9156]

Only player in NBA history that averaged 24 points 10 rebounds and 6 assists

[@donolinger6904]

Arguably the GOAT.

[@randybethune5854]

For me #1 because I believe the level of difficulty for Larry was higher than his counterparts. He outplayed people who.were faster, stronger, and could jump. His understanding of how to play basketball and win against superior athletes makes him my #1.

[@Sir_AlexxTv]

Brid and Magic's relationship is a fairy tale, all athletes should be like them

[@garyzink1927]

Larry's college played mine and we heard they had an all American on their team. We tried to guess which black player he was during warm ups. Man we were dumb. He beat us and dropped over thirty. Best player I ever saw. Great reaction and analysis. Peace from Michigan.

[@bonnieplasha4684]

Thanks for sharing your story!

[@jpake]

He's not fast, but remember he's a legit 6'10". His stride covers a lot of ground. He's not "quick" but he's faster than he looks.

[@tbmike23]

He'd keep a box score going in his head during the game. He'd torch the guy guarding him, calling it 27-9 out loud during the game. He's also know how much his teammates had, so he wasn't making the best pass, he'd distribute to get everybody on the team involved.

[@PixelPro-4000]

The more you watch Bird, the higher he will move up on your list, I promise. Next I recommend “Larry Bird - Making the Case “.

[@CVTECK1]

got you its on the list.

[@daletwin1]

“Larry Bird may have been the best I played against - he could do anything. This muscle here (he pointed to his brain) was his greatest. Shooting, rebounds, assists, steals - he was always positioned at the right place at the right time. And he was a great competitor, I have much respect for him,” said Jabbar.

[@maryday8465]

Now that's what I'm talking about Kareem, James Worthy said he'd rather guard Michael Jordan rather than the bird check facts

[@bonnieplasha4684]

​@Mary Day Yes! I saw that interview.

[@charlesking4780]

Larry Legend in his prime was as good as anybody who ever played the game. 🏀

[@deancafe4739]

He looks slow in videos, because of the quality of videos in the 80's but if you were able to watch larry play live, lemme tell you he was nimble and quick for a 6'9" guy, during his prime.

[@grantstevens4633]

i think you analyzed bird's game perfectly. that is why watching him was fun. he did things he shouldn't seem to have been able to. by the way, love your description of the white guy at the "y". that was me when i was younger.

[@nanook8721]

I was originally a New York Knicks fan, started watching in the late 60s and watched through the early 90s until the game just wasn’t fun to watch anymore. If I could help it I never missed a Larry Bird game. You always knew it was going to be special. I don’t think his basketball IQ has ever been rivaled. He needed to win and the moment he walked on the court that’s all he thought about and worked for. He knew where everybody was on the court at all times… not just his own teammates - everybody. He wasn’t afraid of anybody or intimidated by anybody. He was unselfish and made his teammates better. And you’re right, he had an innate ability to think and play the game of basketball. I always say he was a once in a lifetime gift from the basketball gods. Larry Bird and Magic Johnson saved the NBA… It was in the dumps when they brought it back to life. He is absolutely ranked as my # 1. 🐐☘️

[@CVTECK1]

Yeah his IQ and the feel for the game you can just see in those Video. I wished i watched him life because it would show me the small stuff too. Like when to move when to space you know the little stuff. Larry legend

[@irishgrl]

Mine too.

[@jeffrichards1537]

Everytime I watch the part where Magic gives Larry his jersey i get tears in my eyes. Rivalry leads to respect then friendship. Beautiful

[@PApro]

13:51 That face after hearing Magic call him the greatest basketball player ever! lol With all his cocky trash talking confidence, that was the greatest feeling he could imagine. I bet his VHS copy of that night is all worn out at Magic's speech from all the rewinding. 🤣

[@Wesker1984]

Larry Bird - Greatest Passer Of All Time (Re-edit with new footage) showcases his passing game, 15 minutes of silky smooth passing. 😎 As for the placings, my top 3 goes: 1 = Michael Jordan/Larry Bird 2 - Kareem Abdul Jabaar 3 - Magic Johnson Bird is on par with Jordan simply because of what he accomplished in the time he had, and his personal record against Jordan, Bird 23 - Jordan 11, 17-11 regulars, 6-0 playoffs.

[@aramhamparian9641]

Yep, that passing re-edit version is insane.

[@gsh341]

It's true that Larry wasn't fast or powerful, but you're 100% right that he had a feel for the game. He had an awareness of everything going on around him. It's like everything was slowed down in his mind and he could see what was going to happen almost before it happened. His team contributed to his greatness because they learned to expect little flicks to redirect the ball and passes that came out of nowhere. They knew that Larry could deliver baskets with ridiculous consistency once he got he ball. Above all else, he played with everything he had all the time.

[@raplottrpj]

That's the greatest thing about Larry, he was just an everyday dude that just happened to be one of the Greatest basketball players ever.

[@CVTECK1]

I agree Roger Larry Legend!!!

[@CLM1987]

Bird was in a league all his own. His mental acuity, killer instinct, awareness but most of all his mastery of the fundamentals of the game. I have Bird 2nd behind Jordan but he's the GOAT Small Forward

[@jimbarkley1294]

IMO, you have to compare center to center, point guard to point guard, etc. I put Bird as #1 in the small forward category. Lebron is a great player, but Bird's willingness to play through pain, his leadership, assists and rebounding give him the edge. He also didn't search for a title through trades he spent his entire career with the Celtics.

[@josecastellanos5187]

TRUTH!!

[@nohbodyhughno1121]

This right here!!!!!

[@7shocker]

Better shooter than LeBron, better at 3pt, way better free throw shooter and 10x in the clutch. He's in another league compared to LBJ. LeBron is gifted athletically but has a busted jumper that can't be fixed. Horrible in the clutch. If you're gonna build a team, bird over lbj all day.

[@bonnieplasha4684]

Yes!! Larry's loyalty was to his team, not to a ring.

[@davebelden3715]

He was 100% entertainment. I rank Bird in the top 5. He transformed the NBA into live TV from tape delay. With today's science and medical breakthroughs, he would have played 20 years and dominated today's game. He was slow and unathletic but as you said he was aware and always two steps ahead of the play in his head. He played hurt, no whining and no excuses "Just put me in coach." Celtics - Lakers were the best. Great reaction.

[@ChrisTopher-ek6rr]

Not only 3 mvps, but the came consecutively. & yeah, played 13 seasons (more like 12 & half) & made 12 all stars over those years. Let's not forget how tough his conference was & the level of some of his competition either.

[@anniem169]

I'm blessed to have watched Larry and Magic save the NBA. Literally. They turned out the coked up lazy players and changed the game forever. Without them? No Jordan, no Lebron...no NBA as we know it today. Nothing but respect for Magic and Larry as basketball players and men.

[@janetsmith5665]

Well said !!!

[@anniem169]

@@janetsmith5665 Thank you. I'm such a fan of Larry and Magic... as athletes, team players and men.

[@mikelombard21]

6:05 You are right Larry wasn't the fastest, but he was quick and his IQ, court vision, awareness was off the charts. Ive never seen someone go get their own rebound and kick it in from behind the net in a switching hands lay up in my life. He had the fastest mind on the court and that's what mattered. Knows that he missed, anticipates the rebound direction, and gets there before everyone, while still getting the bucket. So good.

[@loiescudero1172]

Retirement ceremonies usually are held on game days. Bird's retirement ceremony was on a day where no game was played, and the Boston Garden sold out!

[@meminustherandomgooglenumbers]

Here is why Larry has a legit claim to #1. Yes Michael might have been a little bit better scorer - not a better shooter, but way more explosive at the rim. Michael might also have been a tad better defender, although they defended different positions. Magic might have been a little better passer and floor general. But Larry is competitive with those greats in all those categories - and being more well-rounded does have to count for something. Where Larry destroys them both is with his rebounding. Rebounds don't usually make great highlights like scoring and passing does, but rebounding might have been the strongest part of Larry game. He actually averaged double-digit rebounds for his career. For his ENTIRE career, even including the last years when he was all tore up. There's only been like 50 players in all of history who averaged double-digit rebounds for their careers, and most of them were centers. Plus there is the team aspect. This is where Larry really wrecks Michael. When Larry joined the Celtics, they immediately had the biggest single-season turnaround in NBA history, still to this day, in only his rookie season. But when Michael joined the Bulls, they remained a bad team for many years.

[@kristalmacleod3004]

LL WAS A GREATER passes. Magic made EASY passes look HARD' LL made HARD passes look EASY

[@johnbuck3374]

I've always said that he looked like a high school janitor, but schooled everyone. He played half of his career with a bad back. His pre game to get his back ready was crazy. As someone who has a bad back (multiple surgeries) he has my respect. Also his 3 MVPS were consecutive, and he finished 2nd in voting the 3 years prior.

[@jam3sbarry198]

His 3 MVP's came in a row... that solidified him as one of the Greatest of All time !!

[@mikelombard21]

The man had a broken cheek bone and his eye socket was messed up too and he came back to battle. What a warrior.

[@stevenhockensmith3414]

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

[@soramirez5473]

im not a fan of either the bulls/Michael Jordan or celtics/Larry bird.. but as a Knicks fan from the late 80s and ALL of the 90s, ive witnessed my team play against BOTH players, as well as Kobe, Duncan, Shaq, Olajuwan, Curry, Lebron... and in MY opinion, the league didnt fear ANYONE as much as they did Michael Jordan, and Larry Bird.. Gotta go with those as my top two, with Jordan being number 1.. that's as unbaised as a person can get.

[@saltymonkey8874]

Larry, Magic and Jordan are my 3 favorite players to ever lace em up. Just loved the way they played the game.

[@jayfwe]

I give it to Bird for the simple fact that Jordan couldn’t beat Bird in the playoffs. Bird was 6-0 against Jordan in the playoffs

[@masterreaper115]

MJ will outplay you, just blow past you with better athletics. Bird will outsmart you and just mentally ruin you

[@rgreen1107]

Larry Legend is the real GOAT !!!!!!!!

[@dm5319]

Long time Knick fan here. I'm 60+ years old. The rivalry between Magic and Bird was unbelievable. They literally saved the NBA. There are TONS of stuff out there on them both. He would have had a longer career if they had better medical technology (for his feet and his back.) When your team played the Celtics, he was respected and feared.

[@CVTECK1]

I love the rivalry and it just makes the game fun and not just a regular season game you know.

[@ronyrontana9735]

Bird didn't play 13 years. He missed all but 6 games of one season because of having surgery on BOTH achilles heels. He actually played only 12 seasons.

[@Jarhd-sl7kf]

There was a story about after he retired and went to coach the Pacers. He was in practice and had the team running drills he used to do to get ready for games in Boston and got frustraited because they weren't doing it the way he wanted...the story goes that he stopped practice and was very frustrated and said something to effect "Guys, what is going on, I used to do this drill all the time, why aren't you guys picking it up" Finally one of the guys says "Because we aren't Larry Bird" For sure wasn't the fastest player but was one of, if not the most complete player to play the game.

[@flubber1557]

Ive never been a big fan of watching sports but I enjoy playing basketball for fun. Seeing birds relationship with magic and how birds will kept the team alive. It just speaks mad respect to me. He may have trash talked but he could back it up. There are other vids with players stating if bird missed a shot it was suprising. He was so good that it was expected for him to get it in. He didnt need to be super fast at running around the court because his game sense was so strong. He knew where to go before the ball reached that point. He kept track of his teammates so he could make those quick touch passes. I respect this man because he shows the courage to keep going and to inspire his teammates. He knows if he is looking down so is the rest of his team. The symbolism of his back injuries causing him issues later in his carrier when he carried the will of the boston celtics players and fans on his back just speaks for itself. I try and keep a strong will when working my job (summer camp staff member right now) and show the kids what good sportsmanship is and how to keep up the spirit to continue playing in a game.

[@Beebee-tn4bn]

If you want to watch magic & Larry watch the courtship documentary

[@Arm_Kombat]

yes please

[@CVTECK1]

it's on my list

[@chrisbr1969]

Larry Bird is the greatest player I’ve ever seen live, and I saw Jordan play at Boston Garden. He did something amazing every night. And he didn’t need to score a point to win a game. Bird said he was a better shooter in college before he messed up his finger. That’s insane! It’s too bad his back, which he hurt in 1985 and it got worse every year after, shortened his great career. The NBA has never been the same for me without him.

[@aclosson8193]

Larry Bird's Awareness, his Understanding of the game, his Vision on the court, not to mention his Touch with the ball, and his willingness to sacrifice his body to win games, is what sets him apart. The respect he got from his peers speaks volumes about the man. A great many of his contemporaries were in awe of the guy. He wasn't a fast runner down the court. He wasn't athletic in an MJ, Doctor J, Majic Johnson sense of athleticism yet, all his other attributes allowed him to compete and, in most cases, Dominate those far more athletic men. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar said, that Larry Bird was the most difficult man he ever played against. MJ and Majic agreed. Pat Riley stated when asked who in his opinion was the best BBall player he has ever seen. Riley answered, if a Championship was on the line I'd choose Jordan. If my Life was on the line I'd call on Larry Bird.

[@kennyzielinski2625]

I'm 46 years old and got to watch these battles live. I loved both Bird and Magic growing up...I'm a Bulls fan that lives 90 miles from Chicago, but Jordan didn't have the team around him yet. Anyways....you have some of the best protective and attitude towards this video I've seen. Bird was a BAD man...and so was Magic. They became really good friends when they did a shoe commercial together but Bird insisted they do it in Indiana and his house.

[@CVTECK1]

And Kenny I'm getting ready to watch the Doc with Bid and Magic and i heard Bird and magic was hanging out and Bird's mom made food for then instead going in the trailer so i can't wait to watch. I would love to watch games live because people now a ways rather watch Highlight.

[@PixelPro-4000]

I have Jordan #1 and Bird #2. But if I’m team building with a draft, I pick Bird first over everybody.

[@iamthem.a.n.middleagednerd1053]

Summer of '92. Dream Team. I'm 9. Every SINGLE game my friends and I would get together to watch Team USA. We were going nuts because that was the first time we got to see just HOW MUCH better we were at basketball compared to the rest of the world. Larry Legend played great and I didn't understand until many years later how much his back really bothered him. I'm 39 now and 6'8", and I've had back issues over the years myself. That dude is built Ford tough.

[@CVTECK1]

Your back is what hold you up that's is the core. If your back even tightened up you can't do anything. Even if you sneeze your back will hurt trust me I know how back injury is. Larry Legend

[@ronyrontana9735]

Making the Case video digs a little deeper on Bird. It's a good watch. I suggest consuming as much as you can the videos with other NBA players talking about Bird. Gary Peyton, Jamal Mashburn and many others tell amazing tales of Legend's exploits. I won't tell you the whole Craig Elho story, just enough to get you interested. The story ends with Bird asking Elho "is your mother watching". Yeah, he said that to a NBA player.

[@oldben6086]

I second this suggestion.

[@CVTECK1]

got you Rony

[@venetoaward]

I strongly suggest you react to these videos: - Magic Johnson and Larry Bird: A Courtship of Rivals (best documentary about them) - The Complete Compilation of Larry Bird's Greatest Stories Told By NBA Players & Legends (on Nick Smith NBA channel, it's a 4 parts series)

[@CVTECK1]

on the list Veneto thanks.

[@BouncingCow]

I agree on the first one. Really good documentation that catches the respect and emotions of both players towards each other

[@DailyDoseOfTwitchClipsYT]

Have you heard about the Bird? Everybody knows about the Bird. Everybody knows the Bird is the word! Bird Bird Bird, Bird is the word!

[@CVTECK1]

This guy !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@jimpaquette8007]

I feel so lucky to have seen Larry's whole career he always gave 100% and was the best clutch shooter I've ever seen to me he is in the top 5 for sure along with another Celtic the great Bill Russell!

[@CVTECK1]

I wish I watched his games Jim. RIP Bill Russell

[@V12BenzAMG]

he didnt just win 3 mvps...he won 3 mvps IN A ROW...that is a crazy stat :) definitely a deserved LEGEND :) If Larry didn't get hurt early in his career he would have been a BEAST

[@danib7340]

Magic & Bird: A Courtship of Rivals is a great documentary

[@CVTECK1]

I got it on the list. Might have to be a 3 part Ep.

[@control_the_pet_population]

You nailed it. Limited athleticism, but still underrated at least in his prime... he made "athletic" defenders look dumb. Bird was a skill player. He was a reliable threat from anywhere within 15ft with either hand. Guys fall down on his jab because when he is on... he can score from there at will... with either hand. Face-up, in the post, didn't matter... anywhere inside 15ft... Bird could go any direction he wanted. He was very good against very good competition.

[@CVTECK1]

This video did justice for bird in my eyes and it sacks because i love watching a player playing live. But Larry Legend is that dude.

[@control_the_pet_population]

@@CVTECK1 I started truly paying attention to basketball when I was a kid in the mid 80s. Bird, Magic, Jordan, etc... and yes, watching them live is the true experience. Another thing with Bird that people appreciated at the time but doesn't fully translate today was his demand for the ball. If there was a big shot needed, everybody in the arena knew it was going to be Bird. I love Lebron, he has the best combination of skill for the game and raw athleticism that I've ever seen... the man is a freak. But Bird was a cold-blooded assassin in a way that Bron never was and never will be. If the game was on the line and you needed a bucket to win, then Bird should be your GOAT. You'd think "why did they let him get his shot off?" not realizing he had just drained a 23ft fall away over a double team.

[@jaredroberts578]

Limited athleticism? What? Haha

[@control_the_pet_population]

@@jaredroberts578 He played over half his career on a bad back and wrecked feet. Even in his younger prime, he was never exactly Dominique Wilkns or Blake Griffin.

[@jaredroberts578]

@@control_the_pet_population Never said he was. I said what I said, reread if yas need to. You may have been insinuating injuries, the post I responded to was not.

[@edgeorge5889]

Feel for the game is a major understatement in this case! I would argue that bc of his lack of athleticism he had the best “feel for the game” but the reason he stands out amongst the legends is his “clutchness“ 🔥

[@CVTECK1]

I'm with you on that George. I'm learning more about Larry Legend is i like what i'm seeing thus far.

[@yambo59]

Bird was not fast, but he was SMART, His court awareness was unmatched

[@HeyWhatchaWatchin]

I grew upwatching Larry Legend. I got him at #2 all time.

[@jimmyboy131]

There are many who believe Larry was possibly all around the best player of his era, though he and Magic were at the same level. Then Jordan came along and battled both of them. But Jordan just couldn't quite beat Larry. My top 3 all around best players are Larry, Magic, and Jordan, but where do they actually place in the top 10 all time? Good luck with that. All you can agree on is all three are there somewhere. I'd add Wilt in there near the top, too. Larry only played twelve seasons since he was out injured for one season. And in many seasons where he didn't win MVP he placed second in votes. Also look into his Larry Bird Greatest Passer (re-edit) video. It'll blow you away with all that court awareness and IQ you talked about.

[@jimmyboy131]

As far as trash talking Larry was the king of trash talking. An example is John Stockton's story. m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/mXOxcmVvpKmjbLc There's also a Dream Team vs College players story. (thanks to Irishgrl) m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6CapKeehKx6l7c

[@soramirez5473]

that's it right there.. the Will to win.. that's why I got Jordan then Bird cuz from what Ive seen, its not the athleticism or lack of it (plenty of athletic guys), its not the skill, its EVERYTHING but more important, its the person's will to win, the competitive fire and spirit, and Jordan, and Bird had that, they were clutch, they got the numbers, they can do it ALL, (jordan can pass over 5 assists a game for his career) and they won, WITHOUT too many lows..

[@CVTECK1]

Having the heart to win mixed with court vision and awareness will get you Larry Legend.

[@jayfwe]

Bird had the stronger will to win over Jordan. Jordan couldn’t beat Bird in the playoffs. Jordan didn’t start winning until Bird retired.

[@aramhamparian9641]

Great reaction bro. Bird in my top three all time.

[@CVTECK1]

Thanks. Birds passing was shocking to me. That man' can pass that ball.

[@aramhamparian9641]

@@CVTECK1 If you want to know how incredible of a passer Bird was, you gotta react to his passing re-edit video. It's sick as hell bruh...kzbin.info/www/bejne/rajSZamqlr-gqbs

[@bugvswindshield]

3:20 Bird called it .. at the end "in the trainers lap" . He called it then at 3:42 Bird falls into the trainers lap. THAT IS WHY its the best shot call EVER! The Hawks players knew it! Thats WHY they fell off of the bench. They could see him going for the trainer ! Not only was he on fire, made a great shot, but he totally bullshited a move to make it like ultra HORSE ! Oh my God. Everyone misses that.

[@aaronandelise]

Top NBA career combined stats per game (pts, reb, ast, stl, blk) additional career fg%,tp%,ft% 1. Jordan 44.7 -50-33-84 2. Lebron 44.4 -51-35-73 3. Bird 43.1 -50-38-89 4. Kareem 42.9 -56-06-72 5. Durant 40.8 -50-38-88 A bunch of guys in the 40’s.

[@venetoaward]

12:25 I love to see Kareem's arms going down thinking "wtf every time" lol

[@CVTECK1]

I noticed it in the video i just didn't say nothing. It's like he said come on are you kidding me lol

[@shane7073]

Up until 85 bird was a lot more athletic than you see in these clips but after his back injury playing the next 7 years whilst fighting the pain in his spine was unbelievable and a pleasure to watch Larry For me anyway

[@cbogolo]

He also busted both acl's

[@cindyknudson2715]

@@cbogolo Achilles, bone spurs on both heels. (Not acl) 🙂

[@meminustherandomgooglenumbers]

Sad part is, in his early years before '85 many NBA games were not televised - and a lot of them weren't even recorded at all. So a lot of Larry best games in his younger, athletic body, have been lost to history forever, which means most of the highlights we do have, were from after his back was already jacked up.

[@cindyknudson2715]

@@meminustherandomgooglenumbers I've heard that too but... teams watched game film. So there must be some out there 😁

[@meminustherandomgooglenumbers]

@@cindyknudson2715 Watch Doc Rivers talk about the Hawks film session after Larry scored 60 on them the night before. He explains, "Back then we didn't have (our own) film. We watched the regular game (TV broadcast)." That was 1987.

[@soramirez5473]

Larry Bird the Greatest Passer of All Time RE EDIT is a FIRE video..

[@CVTECK1]

I got it on the list

[@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, Larry's game reminded him of someone, who was not only playing basketball, but also, volleyball, dodgeball, hockey, baseball, track & Field, soccer, poker, & strategic chess in his head, and that's what made him so great 😊He certainly was one of the most unique and gifted players, I have ever watched! FYI---Don't ever judge a book by it's cover, and he had a lot more than the feel of the game, his skill was undeniable, and he may not be dripping with muscles, but you don't need muscles to be an amazing athlete! Sorry dude, as many positive things you were trying to say about Bird, they all came across as condescending, and undermining to me........just sayin 😏

[@brettrobbins2707]

Bird, Johnson and Jordan is top 3 for me of all time, not in any given order, I dont like to give lists of all time i like to do lists of all time by position Magic-West-Oscar Jordan-Kobe-Mcgrady Bird-Lebron-Irving Duncan-Durant-Dirk Olajuwon-Shaq-Wilt

[@bentighe4811]

Awareness, IQ, impossible hand-eye coordination, and instantaneous decision making. The decision making is what people don't talk about.

[@daylearceneaux4083]

Another thing that doesn't come across well in highlights is the impact Bird had on his teammates. HIs awareness, selfless play, and ability to include his teammates in the play made everyone on his team better instantly.

[@CVTECK1]

I agree

[@Arm_Kombat]

you want to know bird and magic then watch "a courtship of rivals" is a free documentary on youtube and is AMAZING!! one of the greatest sports rivalry's in history please watch it!!

[@CVTECK1]

on the list 420!!

[@PixelPro-4000]

@@CVTECK1 You will be so glad you watched it. This is revolutionary basketball history.

[@joelhefner9897]

I have Larry Bird, Magic and Michael tied for the GOAT, I can't ever decide between the three, and I watched them all play. I can make a very strong case for each of them individually as the GOAT. Bird and Magic were definitely smarter than Michael. Michael was more athletic. Magic was a better defender than Bird. Bird was a better scorer. Michael never beat Bird in the playoffs and had six chances to do so. Michael had two three-peats for championships. Bird had three MVP's in a row. For three years in a row he was the best player in the NBA, and that included Michael Jordon. Bird and Magic saved the League from bankruptcy, and Michael made it global. No three players had more impact on the game than these three men. Ever.

[@CVTECK1]

I understand that is tough but you can't go wrong with any to be Honest. I can put Jordan at #1 just becuase i had a change to watch him play for about 6 seasons. i wished i watched bird and Magic.

[@lotuslife3239]

@@CVTECK1 It was Scottie Pippen's job to guard Larry in some of those battles against Jordan. He couldnt do it. It was Rodman's job to guard Larry on the Pistons, he couldnt get it done. Magic was a better defender than Bird simply because of athleticism and they both had similar IQ for the game, but Magic didnt want to guard Bird. You ever find a video of MJ guarding Bird you'll see the Mouse in the House. They keep showing vids of MJ taking 10 dribbles to get a 2 on Bird they never show the other

[@snowflakehunter]

I can't disagree with that. Networks were playing reruns rather than playing the NBA games.

[@aramhamparian9641]

@@lotuslife3239 Magic wasn't a better defender than Bird. Bird made three all-defensive teams and his help defense was excellent. He picked off passing lanes and averaged more blocks than Magic even though Magic was checking guards 5-8 inches smaller than he was.

[@jamestoddjackson9655]

@@CVTECK1 my top 3, in no particular order are Bird, Russell, and Jordan. Russell won MVP the same year Oscar Robinson averaged a triple double and Wilt averaged 50 pts 25 rebounds. Bill averaged 18 pts and 29 rebounds. If blocks were captured he would have easily averaged a triple double 10 straight years. Look at all-time defensive win shares. Russell at 133.64. Next is Tim Duncan at 106.34. Russell was 20% higher than the second best defender of all time, According to win-shares. Oh and his 5 MVP’s were voted on by his peers, the players of the league. Watch the “Making the Case” series, all of them are great. Just give Russell a chance is what I’m asking

[@Lonewolfmike]

I recommend watching this: Magic & Bird: A Courtship of Rivals.

[@CVTECK1]

I'm starting that soon Wolf.

[@mervgandishander]

Good perception especially on his IQ and feel. The more you dig on Larry the higher you'll rank him. And yes I know exactly what you mean about that unsuspecting guy at the Y who you KNOW you're faster than but somehow is just dropping buckets on you. There's nothing more frustrating than being more athletic than someone but losing to them anyway because they're more skilled. Add in some legendary trash talk and it all makes sense. Your next vid: m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/rajSZamqlr-gqbs Get ready to understand that Larry probably would have been a Brady like QB if he had dedicated himself to that. IQ/feel for the game on a GOAT level.

[@CVTECK1]

I'm glad you understand the YMCA joke because it has happen in front of me before lol. I added that video. I just finished a Magic video (coming this week) and i asked who is a better passer then Magic so i hope that video will change my mind. Thank you

[@mervgandishander]

Waiting for that Magic premiere to drop. Subbed and looking forward to your reaction to both. You're a rare perceptive reactor with smart honest takes popular or not.

[@derekchant8027]

I guess the only parallel I can think of is fighting. The idea being that you don’t have to be as big as the other guy, you just have to be big enough. He wasn’t the fastest or the most athletic, but he knew where to be to make the plays, and he was fast enough for that. He knew where everything was happening as it was happening, and where it would be happening seconds ahead of time.

[@calipidgious]

Bird was so fun to watch! It was so sad that his body just fell apart on him. The things he did to continue to play his last years was insane. For me, Bird is the best all around player to ever play the game

[@CVTECK1]

His body was giving out on him and yet look what he did Amazing.

[@covewatcher]

13 years.... 3 CONSECUTIVE MVP's in the era of the show time Lakers, the bad boy Pistons, and the 76ers. He played until his back was so bad he literally could not play any longer. His last year and a half he couldn't even sit on the bench, he had to lay on the floor in front of the bench because of his back. He is the legend.

[@shade0180]

Dude that's what everyone say, Like Larry Bird has the highest Basket Ball IQ even to this day. Watch the finals game. 84 and 85 Finals. The two rarely face in the season as they are 2 different conference. I rank Bird at number 2.

[@richardcarlson343]

You’re spot on, “feel for the game”. His basketball IQ was off the charts! I remember watching him as a kid and it was to me the greatest time in basketball. Celtics against the Lakers, or Pistons. It was iconic.

[@CVTECK1]

The good Ole days Richard

[@SakuraShirakawa]

Look Up Making The Case-Larry Bird Larry Bird and Magic Johnson: A courtship of Rivals.

[@CVTECK1]

Just finished it Sakura

[@abelhansen]

Thanks Cvt Thanks for putten larry bird. Mixtape. You could see in larrys eyes that he didnot want to stop playing the game. A. B. From Australia. 🏀🏀🏀🏀🏀🏀🏀🏀.

[@waynefinnicumbb7218]

I watched his games live on tv. He was almost paranormal his intelligence and awareness on the court. He wasn't fast or athletic, true, but he was a devious genius. He got into people's heads, and then blew them away. It's almost like he had eyes everywhere on his head and can see the whole court at the same time. Bird has always been #1 #2 Magic #3 Kareem #4 Jordan #5 Wilt

[@CVTECK1]

I respect that top 5 Wayne.

[@waynefinnicumbb7218]

@@CVTECK1 I've been a Celtic fan all my life, isn't it weird there's more Lakers on my list than Celtics? Lol

[@CVTECK1]

@@waynefinnicumbb7218 Nah i respect it Wayne and i you like who you like. I would never fight that list just because those players are all great.

[@waynefinnicumbb7218]

@@CVTECK1 I can name off a lot more players. I was a huge basketball fan in the 80's, but these 5 I rank at the top of my list. The reason I liked Bird so much is he was like a magician on the court, could throw the ball anywhere without even looking. And watching him play against Magic live on tv, it was amazing seeing how they both battled. It was a much better game then.

[@dogtrainerjen]

Tweety Bird!!! I’m dying! Yes, and I really enjoyed watching you analyzing the game. Correct on all points! Going through the rest of your Bird videos!

[@CVTECK1]

Thanks for having a laugh because some people called all kinds of name lol

[@dogtrainerjen]

@@CVTECK1 Diplomacy is lost these days 🤦🏻‍♀️🤷🏻‍♀️

[@lynnhoffmann247]

#1 here…Watch his greatest passes re-edit or the 5 times Bird was injured but played anyway or his 50 greatest assists

[@ryanmacrae6217]

I have Bird at 4, the more stuff you watch it will start to make sense. Thanks for the Bird reaction brother and stay on the grind...🍀

[@soramirez5473]

i got Bird over Johnson for TWO reasons.. Bird had a better repertoire on offense, and he was the better defender.. . and just as good a passer..

[@charlesking4780]

I love the respect you show for Larry Legend. 👏

[@CVTECK1]

Larry Legend!!!!!!!!!!

[@joggingscissors632]

Grew up watching Bird. Even got a high five from him once, as the Celtics came on the court. I have him at #5, all time

[@MrJoeym78]

Perfect video for you - Making the case Larry Bird. Also if you jump to 3:14 one thing most people miss about the clip that everyone has seen is is right index finger he is pointing up in victory. A devastating injury he sustained during a softball game before after college ball and before starting for the Celtics left his finger shaped much like a boomerang, permanently bent toward his thumb at a 45-degree angle. Two operations have failed to straighten it; he can bend it only halfway to his palm. His feel for the ball never felt the same from that point on. Other videos for Bird - Sad Untold Story of Larry Bird (You’ll see where he gets his drive from), 5 Times Larry Bird Played Injured, Larry Birds Greatest Passes (RE-Edit), Larry Bird Trash-talking