Larry Bird Races Pacers’ All-Star Bid in Indy Car!

Indiana is eager to host the NBA All-Star Game and enlisted the help of Larry Bird to make their bid — in an Indy car, no less.

Bird, a native of Indiana and currently the president of the Pacers, navigated his specially themed car down Fifth Avenue, covering four blocks to deliver the team’s bid to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. Despite his towering 6-foot-9 frame, Bird squeezed into the compact car, a departure from his usual mode of transportation.

Having only driven an Indy car once before, Bird admitted to the challenges of the ride, noting the lack of suspension and the cramped space for his large feet. Nevertheless, he embraced the experience with enthusiasm, drawing a crowd of spectators as he made his way down the street.

Following his drive, Bird expressed his delight, considering it a bucket list moment, especially given the iconic location of New York City. He emphasized the significance of bringing the NBA All-Star Game to Indiana, a state with a rich basketball tradition but hasn’t hosted the event since 1985.

With its track record of hosting major events like the Super Bowl and NCAA Final Fours, Indiana is eager to showcase its passion for basketball once again. The Pacers envision a multi-week celebration of basketball, combining the All-Star Game with other tournaments and events to create a memorable experience for fans and the state alike.

The NBA recently opened bidding for the 2020 and 2021 All-Star weekends, and the Pacers presented an impressive multimedia bid platform highlighting the advantages of hosting in Indianapolis. Commissioner Silver acknowledged Indiana’s strong candidacy, citing the state’s basketball fervor and the longstanding dedication of Pacers owner Herb Simon as compelling factors.