Stephen Klassen

Larry Bird started torturing his opponents before the game even began! Charles Barkley once recalled his first experience at the old Boston Garden. Arriving early before the game, he noticed someone running up and down the arena stairs. When he asked who it was, he was shocked to hear the answer: Larry Bird. Bird was running those stairs nearly two hours before tip-off, putting himself through an exhausting workout. But what happened next was even more unbelievable. When the game started, Bird came out looking completely fresh and proceeded to dominate his opponents. Barkley couldn't believe how someone could work that hard before a game and still make everything look so effortless on the court. I've got nothing but love and respect for Larry, Barkley said. That's what made Larry Legend special. The talent, the confidence, the work ethic and the ability to back up every word. He didn't just talk about being the best. He went out there and proved it. 🏀