One of the most underrated teams in the NBA continues to be the Boston Celtics. Over the years, the team has produced some scintillating performances. One of their biggest legends till date is Larry Bird, literally nicknamed ‘Larry Legend’. The forward retired in 1992, following which numerous basketball icons, including one of the greatest ever, Michael Jordan, congratulated the 12-time All-star on a successful career.
‘Larry Legend’ is widely regarded as one of the best players of his generation. In a career spanning over a decade, he averaged almost 25 points. An important facet of Bird’s was that he was a one-franchise player. There was no omitting him from the green squad, where he transformed into a trailblazer. After his emotional retirement in ’92, the Celtics promptly retired the No.33 jersey in their setup to respect their greatest legend.
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Bulls’ Michael Jordan gives an iconic sendoff to Bird
Both starring in the 90s, Bird and Jordan were front-page heroes of the same generation. Thus, Jordan came up against the former on multiple occasions, and was often on the receiving end of masterclasses. When Bird decided to call it a day, the basketball fraternity sent him their warm wishes. Among the well-wishers, was the 14-time All-star himself.
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In a major throwback video, Jordan jokingly says that he is happy Bird is leaving the game. “Larry I heard that you’re retiring. Thank goodness, I’m glad, I’m tired of seeing your face. Brings a lot of sad memories to me but I enjoyed it tremendously.”
“I wish you lot of luck and I think you had a very wonderful career even though you probably ruined a lot of my successful games against the Boston Celtics,” added Jordan. While they were primarily rivals on the court, the duo shared a touching bond off the court as well.
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The Celtics have perhaps been unable to fully fill the void left by Larry Bird till date. He was surely one of the best forwards out there. The now 64-year-old was influential across an entire era!