How Larry Bird Quietly Became One of the Greatest Players in History

Larry Bird’s competitive fire sometimes turned into outrageous personal challenges. In a 1986 game against Portland, he decided to play most of the game using only his left hand, because he was “saving his right hand” for the Lakers the next night.

Despite handicapping himself, Bird scored 47 points, pulled down 14 rebounds, and dished out 11 assists. Teammates watched in awe as he easily sank lefty fadeaways and free throws. Bird wasn’t just playing—he was experimenting with greatness.