They started off as rivals, big time rivals. The kind where you circle the Lakers-vs-Celtics matchups, you check box scores first thing but over time what looked like bitter competition morphed into respect, then into friendship. There was a Converse commercial, there was lunch, shared moments, mutual acknowledgement that without the other, maybe neither would have pushed as hard.
And what’s most powerful is that rivalry didn’t end with hatred. It became a foundation. They competed insanely, but they also inspired each other.
What do you think made their relationship work as well off the court as it did on it, shared background, respect earned through battles, or something else entirely?
Source:
https://sportsorca.com/nba/magic-johnson-hof-tribute-larry-bird-rivalry-friendship/
Larry you are just what a basketball player should be…remember when Magic said this, what a moment!
byu/Next_Bench5903 inbostonceltics
1 comment
Grew up watching these two battle each other and it was so amazing watching them play. The respect that grew between them was an incredible example of sportsmanship for a young person. Don’t get me wrong these two played like their lives were on the line and in those battles they weren’t friendly but once the game was over the respect was clear.