When Larry Bird returned my call, I was stunned to the point of nearly swerving off the road. It was 2008, and I was working on a piece about the U.S. men’s Olympic basketball team, seeking insights from Bird, a member of the legendary 1992 Dream Team. Given his prominent role with the Indiana Pacers at the time, I was advised by a colleague to try calling his office directly, mentioning that Bird occasionally answered his own phone.
Despite my doubts, I left a voicemail explaining my story and requesting Bird’s input. I didn’t expect to hear back, given Bird’s status as a basketball icon and my relatively insignificant role in the industry.
To my surprise, five hours later, I received a call from an Indianapolis area code while driving with my three-year-old son. Amidst his crying, I answered, and to my astonishment, heard Bird’s unmistakable voice on the other end. Despite the chaos, Bird remained unfazed, even making a lighthearted comment about the background noise.
Throughout our conversation, Bird displayed remarkable kindness and patience, making me feel valued despite our unfamiliarity. He even offered a casual invitation to reach out anytime, reflecting his genuine warmth and humility.
As a lifelong admirer of Bird, his impact on my basketball journey has been profound. Inspired by his relentless work ethic and dedication to the game, I aspired to emulate his skills and passion on the court. While my basketball aspirations didn’t lead to NBA stardom, Bird’s influence motivated me to pursue a career in sports journalism, channeling my passion for the game into my profession.
In writing this tribute to Bird, I’m reminded of the profound impact he has had on my life and countless others. His legacy transcends basketball, serving as a source of inspiration and gratitude for those, like myself, who have been profoundly influenced by his greatness.
