Larry Joe Bird, born on December 7, 1956, is one of the most iconic figures in basketball history. Known by nicknames such as "Larry Legend" and "the Hick from French Lick," Bird's career in the NBA is filled with accolades and achievements that have cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time. Bird is the only individual in NBA history to have been named Rookie of the Year, Most Valuable Player (MVP), Finals MVP, All-Star MVP, Coach of the Year, and Executive of the Year. His versatility and leadership on the court made him a dominant force during his 13-season career with the Boston Celtics.

Bird's journey to basketball stardom began in French Lick, Indiana, where he was a local high school sensation. After a brief stint at Indiana University, Bird transferred to Indiana State University, where he led the Sycamores to an undefeated regular season and a national championship game appearance in 1979. That game, which pitted Bird against Magic Johnson and Michigan State, marked the beginning of one of the most famous rivalries in basketball history. Although Indiana State lost the championship, Bird's performance throughout the season earned him national recognition and set the stage for his NBA career.

Drafted by the Boston Celtics with the sixth overall pick in the 1978 NBA Draft, Bird chose to finish his college career before joining the NBA in the 1979–80 season. His impact was immediate, as he led the Celtics to a 32-win improvement and a playoff berth in his rookie season. Over the course of his career, Bird led the Celtics to five NBA Finals appearances, winning three championships. He was a 12-time NBA All-Star, a two-time Finals MVP, and the league MVP for three consecutive seasons from 1984 to 1986, a feat no other forward has accomplished. Bird was also a key member of the 1992 U.S. Olympic "Dream Team," which won the gold medal in Barcelona.

After retiring as a player in 1992, Bird transitioned into coaching and executive roles. He served as head coach of the Indiana Pacers from 1997 to 2000, earning NBA Coach of the Year honors in 1998 and leading the Pacers to the 2000 NBA Finals. In 2003, Bird became the Pacers' president of basketball operations, a position he held until 2012, when he was named NBA Executive of the Year. Bird briefly returned to the Pacers in 2013 and continued to serve as an advisor until 2022. His contributions to the game, both on and off the court, have made him a revered figure in basketball history.

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