Mark Jackson & Reggie Miller Reveal Wild Larry Bird Smoking Story!

Reggie Miller shared an amusing anecdote about Larry Bird during his appearance on the ‘Mark Jackson Show’:

Mark Jackson: “Playing for Larry Bird was amazing. He was one of the all-time greats, a hero we looked up to and competed against, with a brilliant basketball mind.”

“But do you remember the time we were in the layup line for some reason, and as team captains, Reg and I had to go back to talk to Larry Bird right before the game? With 20 seconds left on the clock, we ran off the court and went backstage. Take it from here, Reg.”

Reggie Miller: “So Jack and I headed back to the locker room looking for Coach Bird. We were told he was in his office, but when we checked, he wasn’t there.”

“The trainers urged us to hurry, and then someone suggested we check the shower. So, we went back there, needing to ask him something before returning to the court. We turned the corner and there was Larry Legend, sitting in a chair, smoking a pack of Newport cigarettes.”

“He asked, ‘What do you boys need?’ We just said, ‘We’re good, Coach, don’t worry about it.’ He replied, ‘Alright, see you guys out there in a few minutes.’ Jack and I looked at each other in disbelief, ‘Can you believe this? Larry Bird, just casually smoking Newports before a game.'”

This story illustrates Bird’s unique and laid-back personality. Even in high-pressure situations, he maintained a calm demeanor, which influenced his coaching style. The image of Bird casually smoking before a critical game highlights the contrast between his relaxed nature and the intensity of the competitive environment.

Larry Bird coached the Indiana Pacers from 1997 to 2000. In his first season (1997-98), Bird led the Pacers to a 58-24 record, winning the Central Division title. They reached the Eastern Conference Finals but were narrowly defeated by the Chicago Bulls in a seven-game series.

The 1998-99 season was shortened to 50 games due to the NBA lockout. Bird’s Pacers finished 33-17, again winning the Central Division. They made it to the Eastern Conference Finals but were beaten by the New York Knicks in six games. Bird was named NBA Coach of the Year for his efforts.

In his final season (1999-2000), Bird guided the Pacers to a 56-26 record. The team reached their first-ever NBA Finals, ultimately losing to the Los Angeles Lakers in six games.

Bird’s tenure with the Pacers is remembered for their successes and his deep connection with his players. His extensive knowledge of the game and ability to relate to his team made him a respected and formidable coach.

The story shared by Miller and Jackson underscores Larry Bird’s iconic and unforgettable presence in basketball.