Larry Bird Biography: Larry Joe Bird born December 7, 1956 is a former professional basketball player, coach, and executive in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Known by nicknames such as “the Hick from French Lick” and “Larry Legend,” Bird is widely considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time. He is the only person in NBA history to have earned honors such as Rookie of the Year, Most Valuable Player, Finals MVP, All-Star MVP, Coach of the Year, and Executive of the Year. Bird grew up in French Lick, Indiana, where he became a local basketball sensation. Highly recruited for his skills, he initially committed to play for coach Bob Knight at Indiana University. However, after just one month, Bird dropped out and returned to French Lick to attend a local college. The following year, he enrolled at Indiana State University, where he played for three years.
Larry Bird Biography
Larry Bird graduated from Springs Valley High School in French Lick, Indiana, in 1974. He briefly attended Indiana University before transferring to Indiana State University in Terre Haute. Bird then launched an exceptional basketball career, solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest shooting forwards in the history of the game. The Boston Celtics selected him with the sixth overall pick in the first round of the 1978 NBA Draft, but Bird had one more year of eligibility and chose to play another season at Indiana State. That year, he led the Sycamores to the 1979 NCAA Championship Game against Michigan State, where his intense rivalry with Magic Johnson of MSU was born, kicking off one of the most iconic basketball rivalries of the 1980s. Bird joined the Celtics in the fall of 1979 and played his entire career with the team.
Larry Bird Biography 2025 Details
| Born | December 7, 1956 (age 68) West Baden Springs, Indiana, U.S. |
| Listed height | 6 ft 9 in (2.06 m) |
| Listed weight | 220 lb (100 kg) |
| High school | Springs Valley (French Lick, Indiana) |
| College | Indiana State (1976–1979) |
| NBA draft | 1978: 1st round, 6th overall pick |
| Drafted by | Boston Celtics |
| Playing career | 1979–1992 |
| Position | Small forward / power forward |
| Number | 33 |
| Coaching career | 1997–2000 |
| Category | Football Biographies |
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About Larry Bird
Larry Joe Bird is an American former professional basketball player, coach, and executive in the National Basketball Association. Nicknamed “the Hick from French Lick” and “Larry Legend” Bird is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
Larry Bird Wiki
- Born: 7 December 1956 (age 68 years), West Baden Springs, Indiana, United States
- Teammates: Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Charles Barkley ·
- Number: 33 (Boston Celtics / Small forward, Power forward) ·
- Dates joined: 1992 (1992 United States men’s Olympic basketball team) ·
- Spouse: Dinah Mattingly (m. 1989), Janet Condra (m. 1975–1976)
- Height: 06 m
- Career end: 1992
Early life
Larry Bird was born on December 7, 1956, in West Baden Springs, Indiana, to Georgia Marie (née Kerns; 1930–1996) and Claude Joseph “Joe” Bird (1926–1975), a World War II and Korean War veteran. His heritage includes Irish, Scottish, and Native American roots. Bird grew up with four brothers and a sister. Raised in the nearby town of French Lick, Larry’s mother worked two jobs to support him and his five siblings. Bird has often stated that his tough childhood, marked by financial hardship, continues to drive him to this day.
Basketball became an escape for Bird from his family’s challenges. He played for Springs Valley High School, where he became the school’s all-time leading scorer, averaging 31 points, 21 rebounds, and 4 assists during his senior year. As a child, Bird was a devoted fan of the Indiana Pacers in the American Basketball Association (ABA), especially admiring 6’9″ center Mel Daniels, who introduced him to professional basketball. Interestingly, Bird’s youngest brother, Eddie, also played basketball at Indiana State University.
Larry Bird’s Endorsements
Larry Bird has appeared in several advertising campaigns, including clothing ads and video games. One of his notable endorsements was with Heinz Corporation, where he helped promote their products and services.
Larry Bird’s Investments
Bird has also made investments outside of basketball. He made a cameo appearance in the movie Space Jam, which helped increase his fame. Additionally, he has ventured into real estate, co-owning a hotel and restaurant in Terre Haute. Bird is also known for turning one of his homes into a restaurant, offering free meals to NBA officials.
Larry Bird’s Other Sources of Income
Aside from his basketball earnings and investments, Larry Bird has earned income through various documentaries made about his life and career. These include titles such as A Basketball Legend, Celtics/Lakers: Best of Enemies, and Magic & Bird: A Courtship of Rivals.
Larry Bird’s House and Car Collection
Bird once owned a stunning 10,232-square-foot mansion in Indianapolis, featuring five bedrooms, eight bathrooms, a pool, tennis court, and a home theater, among other luxurious amenities. He listed the property for sale at $2.4 million. Additionally, Bird has a notable car collection, which includes a “Pacer’s Indy Car,” a 1983 Jeep CJ7 Renegade, and a 1984 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am.
Larry Bird’s Charity Work
An honorary director of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Larry Bird has supported various charitable causes, including Charita Bulls, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of Chicago’s youth through educational, recreational, and social programs. Bird prefers to keep his charitable donations private, stating, “I don’t require publicity. I’m not doing anything to gain attention. Though I do care. And that matters the most.”
Larry Bird’s Net Worth 2025
Larry Bird, the legendary former basketball player and businessman, has an estimated net worth of $75 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. His wealth stems from his successful career in coaching, endorsements, and his role as the President of Basketball Operations for the Indiana Pacers, in addition to his playing days. Bird has also earned money through various endorsement deals, including appearances in clothing and video game advertisements, as well as promoting Heinz Corporation products.
Larry Bird’s Salary
At the peak of his career, Larry Bird was one of the highest-paid players in the NBA. He signed a five-year contract worth $3.25 million, earning $650,000 annually. Bird was also the first player in NBA history to earn $5 million in a single season. Over the course of his playing career, Bird earned a total of $24,070,000. His highest salary came during the 1991-92 season, when he earned $7,070,000 before retiring due to back injuries.
FAQs
What businesses does Larry Bird own?
Larry Bird co-owns a hotel and restaurant in Terre Haute and has also converted one of his former homes into a restaurant.
What kind of car does Larry Bird drive?
Larry Bird’s car collection includes a Pacer’s Indy Car, a 1983 Jeep CJ7 Renegade, and a 1984 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am.
Where did Larry Bird live?
Larry Bird owned a luxury 10,232-square-foot mansion in Indianapolis, which he later listed for sale at $2.4 million.
Was Larry Bird in any movies?
Yes, Larry Bird made an appearance in the movie Space Jam, further expanding his presence beyond basketball.
Has Larry Bird done charity work?
Larry Bird is actively involved in charity and has supported causes like suicide prevention and youth education through organizations such as the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and Charita Bulls.
What are some documentaries about Larry Bird?
Documentaries about Larry Bird include A Basketball Legend, Magic & Bird: A Courtship of Rivals, and Celtics/Lakers: Best of Enemies.