“I’ve got a street, a statue, and now a museum here”: Larry Bird Museum officially opens in Terre Haute

Larry Bird, a self-proclaimed shy introvert, pondered why he often found himself addressing thousands of fans on stage.

“It’s all about the love and respect between me and my fans,” Bird explained.

On Thursday, the Indiana State University and Boston Celtics legend spoke at the grand opening of the Larry Bird Museum in the Terre Haute Convention Center. Afterward, Bird humorously suggested this might be his last media interview.

“I’ve got a street, a statue, and now a museum here,” Bird remarked about Terre Haute, where Indiana State is located. “Thank you, but that’s enough for now. You have no idea how much I respect this city and its people.”

The event occurred shortly after the Celtics swept the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference finals, advancing to the NBA Finals. Bird, a former Pacers head coach and executive, rejoined the team as a consultant in 2023.

“At the All-Star Game, I told a Celtics owner they had the best team in the league,” said Bird, a three-time NBA champion with Boston. “I’m very proud of the Pacers. Haliburton and the guys play well together. They win when the ball moves and they guard. Sometimes they don’t guard. They’ll only get better.”

Bird, 67, expressed pride in the museum and the effort behind it. The museum features memorabilia from his high school, college, and NBA career, along with interactive exhibits and interviews with coaches, teammates, and rivals. Bird led Indiana State to the 1979 NCAA championship game, losing to Magic Johnson’s Michigan State.

“There’s enough in there to keep everyone interested,” Bird said. “It’ll be great for the city and attract many visitors.”

The museum showcases numerous items that evoke memories for Bird. Museum Co-Chair Terri Conley noted that Bird insisted on free admission.

Bird called the opening reception unbelievable.

“I think that’s what social media is all about; thank God they didn’t have that when I was playing,” he joked. “Many young kids wear my jersey. … Terre Haute followed my career. You don’t make these journeys alone. Terre Haute always had my back.”

Bird never imagined having a museum named after him.

“I just wanted to follow my brother and make the varsity team,” he said. “I was proud to start as a junior. I kept playing because I loved the game. Basketball clicked for me.”

Entering his sophomore year at Springs Valley High School, Bird grew from 6-foot-1 to nearly 6-foot-9, which significantly impacted his game.

“Thank God I grew, or I’d still be on that garbage truck,” Bird said, referring to his job in French Lick before enrolling at ISU. “At 6-1, you need to be special and quick to make the NBA. Growing up at Indiana State helped my game.”

Bird reflected on tough losses and great wins during his journey.

“It’s unfortunate my career didn’t last longer. I could’ve played two more years, but injuries piled up,” he said. “We should have won at least one more championship with the team we had.”

Bird retired before the 1992-93 season due to back problems. He led the Celtics to NBA titles in 1981, ’84, and ’86, and as a coach, took the Pacers to the 2000 NBA Finals, where they lost to the Lakers.