Reggie Miller was on the ‘Mark Jackson Show’, where they both recalled an incredible story about Larry Bird:
Mark Jackson: “Playing for Larry Bird was incredible. One of the all-time greats, one of our heroes that we watched and competed against, and a brilliant basketball mind.”
“But you remember the story when we, for some reason we were in the layup line, and Reg and I, as the captains of the team, we had, I don’t even remember what we had to go back.”
“I don’t remember what we had to go back and talk to Larry Bird about before the game. 20 seconds on the clock, we’re getting layups. Reg and I jog off the court, go into the back. You take it from there.”
Reggie Miller: “So Jack and I, we go back into the locker room and we’re like, you know, where’s coach? Where’s Coach Bird? And they’re like, Oh, he’s in, he’s in his office. We go to his office. He’s not in his office.”
“We’re like, you know, the trainers are back there. I was like, he’s like, hurry up. We got to get back out to the court. Like, where is he? And then you know what? So Slick is like, go check the shower.”
“So we head back to the shower, cause you know, we had to ask him this question, you know, before we got out there, we go around the corner, Larry Legend’s sitting in a chair, got a pack of Newport, just smoking away.”
“Oh, what you boys, what you guys need? We’re like, we’re good coach, don’t worry about it, right? He’s like, alright, I’ll see you guys out there in a few minutes. I look at Jack, Jack looks at me, he’s like, “Can you believe this? Larry Bird, just casually smoking Newports before a game.”
The story shared by Miller and Jackson highlights Bird’s unique and laid-back personality. Even in high-pressure situations, Bird maintained a sense of calm and coolness, which translated into his coaching style. The sight of a legendary figure like Bird casually smoking before a critical game underscores the contrast between his relaxed demeanor and the intensity of the competitive environment.
Larry Bird coached the Indiana Pacers for three years from 1997 to 2000. In his first season in 1997-98, Bird led the Pacers to a 58-24 record, securing the Central Division title. The Pacers reached the Eastern Conference Finals, showcasing a disciplined and resilient team, but were ultimately defeated by the Chicago Bulls in a hard-fought seven-game series.
The NBA lockout shortened the 1998-99 season to 50 games. Bird’s Pacers finished with a 33-17 record, placing first in the Central Division again. They advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals, where they were narrowly beaten by the New York Knicks in six games. Bird was named NBA Coach of the Year for his efforts.
In his final season in 1999-20 as head coach, Bird guided the Pacers to a 56-26 record. This season was marked by the Pacers reaching their first-ever NBA Finals. Despite a valiant effort, they lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in six games.
Bird’s tenure with the Pacers is remembered not just for the wins and deep playoff runs, but also for the respect and admiration he commanded from his players. His ability to connect with the team, combined with his extensive knowledge of the game, made him a formidable coach.
The anecdote from Miller and Jackson serves as a testament to the unforgettable and iconic presence of Larry Bird in the world of basketball.
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