Larry Bird is a name synonymous with basketball excellence. As one of the most decorated players in NBA history, Bird’s contributions to the game are legendary. From his remarkable shooting skills to his uncanny court vision, Bird’s career is a tapestry of extraordinary achievements. Here, we explore five incredible feats by Larry Bird that only a select few in NBA history have managed to accomplish.
1. Three Consecutive MVP Awards
Winning the NBA MVP award is a pinnacle achievement that signifies a player’s dominance and value to their team. Larry Bird secured the MVP trophy three years in a row from 1984 to 1986. This feat places him in an elite group of only three players who have achieved this, alongside Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell. Bird’s back-to-back-to-back MVPs underscore his unparalleled impact during the mid-1980s, as he led the Boston Celtics to multiple championships.
2. Multiple 50-40-90 Seasons
The 50-40-90 club is an exclusive group of players who have shot at least 50% from the field, 40% from three-point range, and 90% from the free-throw line in a single season. Bird not only achieved this once but did so twice, in the 1986-87 and 1987-88 seasons. Only ten players in NBA history have managed even one 50-40-90 season, making Bird’s consistency and precision shooting a remarkable feat.
3. Career Average of 20+ Points, 10+ Rebounds, and 5+ Assists Per Game
Larry Bird’s versatility and all-around game are epitomized by his career averages. Bird finished his career averaging over 20 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. This combination of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking prowess is rare and places Bird in a category with the likes of Elgin Baylor and Wilt Chamberlain. It highlights his ability to impact the game in multiple facets consistently.
4. NBA Finals MVP and Regular Season MVP in the Same Year
Securing both the NBA Finals MVP and the regular season MVP in the same year is a testament to a player’s dominance throughout the entire season and the playoffs. Bird accomplished this feat in 1984 and again in 1986. Joining him in this rare achievement are legends like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and LeBron James, who have demonstrated their ability to elevate their performance when it matters most.
5. All-NBA First Team Selections for Five Consecutive Years
Bird was named to the All-NBA First Team for five consecutive years from 1984 to 1988. This streak highlights his consistent excellence and recognition as one of the top players in the league year after year. Only a handful of players, has achieved this. Regardless, Larry Bird is considered as one of the greatest to ever play in the NBA
you omitted to mention him being the first 3 point shot king for 3 consecutive years!