In the annals of NBA history, the debate over who stands as the greatest player is a never-ending discussion, often colored by personal experiences and individual biases. For Bill Walton, a two-time NBA champion and Hall of Famer, the answer is clear: Larry Bird.
Walton’s endorsement of Bird as the best player he ever played with, even ranking him above Magic Johnson, holds significant weight. Walton’s career, which spanned from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s, saw him play alongside some of the most legendary figures in basketball. His firsthand experiences and insights provide a unique perspective on Bird’s extraordinary talent.
Bill Walton joined the Boston Celtics for the 1985-1986 season, a move that paired him with Larry Bird, already an established superstar and a two-time NBA champion. Walton, known for his exceptional skills as a center, had himself been a formidable force in the league, winning an MVP award and leading the Portland Trail Blazers to a championship in 1977. However, injuries had plagued much of his career, and by the time he joined the Celtics, he was seen more as a valuable veteran presence than a dominant force.
Despite his reduced role, Walton found new life playing alongside Bird. The 1985-1986 Celtics team, often hailed as one of the greatest teams in NBA history, dominated the league, finishing the season with a 67-15 record and eventually winning the NBA championship. Walton’s contributions off the bench earned him the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award, but it was Bird’s performance that truly stood out.
Larry Bird and Magic Johnson are often compared, having entered the NBA at the same time and sparking a legendary rivalry that revived the league in the 1980s. Both players brought unique skills and transformed their teams—Bird with the Celtics and Magic with the Los Angeles Lakers. However, for Walton, Bird’s all-around game and competitive spirit set him apart.
“Larry Bird is by far the best player I have played with,” Walton said in an interview. “He’s better than Magic Johnson to me.” This statement isn’t merely about statistical comparisons but also about the intangible qualities Bird brought to the court.
1. Versatility and Skillset: Bird was known for his versatility, capable of playing multiple positions and excelling in all facets of the game—scoring, passing, rebounding, and defense. His basketball IQ was off the charts, allowing him to outthink and outmaneuver opponents consistently.
2. Competitive Fire: Bird’s legendary work ethic and fierce competitiveness were unmatched. He was known for playing through injuries and always giving his all on the court, which resonated deeply with Walton, who himself had battled through numerous injuries throughout his career.
3. Leadership and Impact. Bird’s leadership was a crucial element of the Celtics’ success. He had an uncanny ability to elevate the play of those around him, creating a cohesive and formidable team unit. Walton experienced this firsthand, finding a rejuvenated role in Boston that allowed him to contribute significantly to the team’s championship run.
PThe Legacy of Larry Bird
Walton’s admiration for Bird highlights the latter’s impact on the game of basketball. Bird’s career was marked by numerous accolades: three NBA championships, three MVP awards, and 12 All-Star selections. His rivalry with Magic Johnson defined an era and left an indelible mark on the sport.
While the debate over the greatest player will continue, Walton’s perspective adds a valuable layer to the discussion. His time playing alongside Bird provided him with an up-close view of Bird’s brilliance, making his endorsement particularly meaningful.
In the end, Larry Bird’s legacy as one of the greatest basketball players remains secure. His combination of skill, intelligence, and competitive drive sets him apart in the eyes of many, including Bill Walton, who witnessed firsthand just how special a player Bird was. For Walton, the answer to the greatest player he ever played with is simple and emphatic: Larry Bird.
