Mark Jackson And Reggie Miller Share A Crazy Story Of Larry Bird Smoking Newports.
Reggie Miller and Mark Jackson shared a memorable story about Larry Bird on the ‘Mark Jackson Show.’ Jackson reminisced about the privilege of playing for Bird, highlighting his basketball genius and status as a hero.
He recalled an incident when he and Miller, as team captains, had to speak to Bird before a game. They went backstage while the team was in the layup line but couldn’t find Bird in his office.
After searching, they found him in the shower area, casually smoking Newports. Bird nonchalantly asked what they needed, and they quickly reassured him they were fine, amazed by his relaxed demeanor before a game.
Bird’s calm attitude contrasted with the competitive intensity of the environment and reflected his unique coaching style. Bird coached the Indiana Pacers from 1997 to 2000.
In his first season, he led the Pacers to a 58-24 record and the Central Division title, reaching the Eastern Conference Finals but losing to the Chicago Bulls in seven games.
During the lockout-shortened 1998-99 season, the Pacers finished 33-17, again winning the Central Division and reaching the Eastern Conference Finals, where they narrowly lost to the New York Knicks. 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 and their first-ever NBA Finals appearance, where they lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in six games. Bird’s tenure is remembered for his winning record, deep playoff runs, and the respect he garnered from his players.
His ability to connect with the team and his extensive game knowledge made him an exceptional coach. The anecdote shared by Miller and Jackson highlights Bird’s unforgettable presence in basketball.