Bird: One for the Ages

Rules for the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame say that a player needs at least 10 seasons in order to qualify for induction. Those who follow the NBA were ready to break that rule when it appeared that Larry Bird’s notoriously creaky back would prevent him from the requisite time. Fortunately, Bird made it to 13 seasons, in that time winning three NBA World Championships titles, three NBA MVP awards and the respect of his mother. At his Hall of Fame induction speech, Bird recalled that his mother said, “For a blonde-headed, snotty little kid you did very well Larry. I’m very proud of you.” Many Bird artifacts are on display at the Hall today.