Last Updated on July 18, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

Larry Bird played with a rare blend of confidence, intelligence, and precision, making every possession feel as though he was one step ahead of everyone else on the court. The Boston Celtics legend became one of the greatest forwards in NBA history through his clutch shooting, elite passing, relentless competitiveness, and three MVP awards in consecutive seasons.

Here is the detailed information about Larry Bird:

  • Full Name: Larry Joe Bird
  • Nationality: United States (born in West Baden Springs, Indiana)
  • DOB: Born December 7, 1956
  • Hometown: French Lick, Indiana
  • Shoe Size: Size 17 (US)
  • Wingspan: 6 feet 9 inches (2.06 meters)
  • Weight: 220 lbs (100 kg) during his playing career
  • Height: 6 feet 9 inches (2.06 meters)
  • Position: Small forward / Power forward
  • College: Indiana State University
  • High School: Springs Valley High School (French Lick, Indiana)
  • Draft: 1978, 1st round, 6th pick overall by the Boston Celtics
  • Teams: Boston Celtics (1979–1992)
  • 2K Rating:
  • Rings: 3 NBA Championships (1981, 1984, 1986 with the Boston Celtics)
  • Kids: Three children (Corrie, Mariah, and Conner)
  • Siblings: Larry Bird has five siblings, including one brother (Eddie) and four sisters (Linda, Donna, Betty, and a half-sister, Jane)
  • Retirement Age: Retired from playing in 1992 at age 35
  • Net Worth: Made $25,870,000 in the NBA

Larry Bird’s player archetype is a do-everything offensive forward who combined elite shooting, playmaking, and rebounding into one of the most complete skill sets the NBA has seen. Although he lacked overwhelming speed or vertical explosiveness, his size, strength, anticipation, and precision allowed him to control games at his own pace. Bird could initiate the offense from the wing or the post, punish defenses with pinpoint passing, and score from virtually anywhere on the floor, whether spotting up, working in the mid-range, or stretching defenses beyond the arc. He competed hard defensively through positioning and instincts, but his lasting impact came from his ability to elevate an entire offense, consistently creating high-quality opportunities for both himself and his teammates while delivering in the biggest moments.

Fun Facts

  • Larry Bird grew up in Indiana which is why he took the job as president of basketball operations for the Indiana Pacers after he retired as a player.
  • In the 19070s, Larry Bird worked as a garbage collector in French Lick, Indiana. At that time, he never dreamed of being an NBA player and thought he would have a career as a construction worker pouring concrete.