In a recent conversation with NBC Sports Boston, Jayson Tatum, fresh off his first NBA championship, chose not to label himself as the greatest Celtic in history. Instead, he recognized Larry Bird as the franchise’s all-time best. Tatum reflected, “Larry Bird is the best player to ever don a Celtics uniform. Whether it’s about his impressive 30-point average in one season or a remarkable 60-point game, being mentioned alongside him is significant. Striving to be the best is essential, and Bird is that benchmark. Even if I don’t quite reach that level, I still consider my career to be successful.”
While many contemporary players often downplay the accomplishments of earlier generations, Tatum’s perspective is refreshingly respectful. Unlike others who critique the talent of pre-2000s basketball, Tatum makes a point to honor the legends who paved the way. The Celtics, known for their storied history since claiming their first championship in 1957, have set a standard of excellence, particularly during the Bill Russell era, when the team won seven consecutive titles.
The Celtics’ legacy is filled with iconic figures like Bob Cousy, Robert Parish, and Dave Cowens, all of whom have contributed to the team’s remarkable success. With 16 NBA championships, the Celtics stand as one of the most successful franchises across all professional sports. Yet, even amid this illustrious company, Larry Bird remains the standout star. As a 12-time All-Star, three-time champion, and three-time MVP, Bird was a dominant scorer who excelled at shooting, driving, and playmaking. His leadership was instrumental in securing three championships between 1981 and 1986.
Bird’s impressive career statistics speak volumes; he averaged 24.3 points, 10 rebounds, and 6.3 assists during his time with the Celtics. His peak came in the 1987-88 season, where he finished second in MVP voting with an average of 29.9 points per game. Bird was not only a fierce competitor but also a reliable teammate who consistently rose to the occasion when needed. After his retirement in 1992, his legacy solidified him as an all-time great and the quintessential
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