Larry Bird Kids: The Legacy Of An NBA Legend

When it comes to basketball legends, few names resonate as strongly as Larry Bird. Known for his incredible skills on the court, Bird’s legacy extends beyond his personal achievements to his family, particularly his kids. This article explores the lives of Larry Bird's children, delving into their backgrounds, careers, and the impact of being raised by one of basketball's greatest players.

The story of Larry Bird and his family is one of inspiration, perseverance, and the pursuit of greatness. From a young age, Bird instilled the values of hard work and dedication in his children, which they have carried into their own lives. As we dive deeper into the lives of Larry Bird's kids, we will see how they each carved out their own paths while navigating the challenges and expectations that come with being the children of a sports icon.

In this comprehensive article, we'll cover various aspects of Larry Bird's children, including their personal lives, careers, and the lessons they've learned from their father. Join us as we explore the legacy of Larry Bird through the eyes of his kids, showcasing how his influence shaped their journeys and the values they hold dear.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Larry Bird
• Larry Bird's Children
• Cory Bird
• Edward Bird
• Merrie Bird
• Values Instilled by Larry Bird
• Career Paths of Larry Bird's Kids
• The Impact of Being Larry Bird's Children
• Conclusion
• Sources

Biography of Larry Bird

Larry Bird was born on December 7, 1956, in West Baden Springs, Indiana. He gained fame as a college basketball star at Indiana State University, where he led the team to the NCAA Championship game in 1979. Bird went on to have a legendary career with the Boston Celtics, winning three NBA championships and earning numerous accolades, including two NBA Finals MVP awards and being named to the All-Star team 12 times.

After retiring from professional basketball, Bird transitioned into coaching and management roles. He served as the head coach of the Indiana Pacers and later became the team's president of basketball operations. Bird's impact on the game is immeasurable, and he remains a beloved figure in the world of sports.

Personal Life and Family

Larry Bird was married to Dinah Mattingly in 1989, and together they have adopted two children, becoming a blended family. The couple has worked hard to maintain a sense of normalcy for their kids, despite Bird's fame and the pressures that come with it.

Larry Bird's Children

Cory Bird

Cory Bird, born in 1981, is the eldest of Larry Bird's children. Growing up under the shadow of his father's success, Cory has pursued his own path in sports and community engagement. He has been actively involved in various charitable initiatives, reflecting the values instilled in him by Larry.

Edward Bird

Edward Bird, born in 1985, has taken a different route, focusing on business and philanthropy. He has worked in various capacities in the corporate world while also engaging in charitable efforts, supporting causes close to his heart. Edward has often spoken about how his father's work ethic and dedication have influenced his career choices.

Merrie Bird

Born in 1990, Merrie Bird is the youngest of Larry Bird's children. She has shown a keen interest in the arts and has pursued a career in this field. Merrie often reflects on the lessons learned from her father, particularly the importance of creativity and perseverance in achieving one's dreams.

Values Instilled by Larry Bird

One of the most significant influences Larry Bird has had on his children is the emphasis on hard work and dedication. He has always encouraged them to pursue their passions and to strive for excellence, regardless of the field they choose. Some key values include:

• Hard Work: Larry Bird's legendary work ethic is a trait he has passed down to his children.
• Integrity: Bird has always emphasized the importance of honesty and integrity in both personal and professional life.
• Community Engagement: Larry and his family have been involved in various charitable activities, highlighting the importance of giving back.
• Resilience: Bird's ability to overcome challenges has taught his children the value of resilience in the face of adversity.

Career Paths of Larry Bird's Kids

Each of Larry Bird's children has chosen unique paths that reflect their interests and the values instilled in them by their father. Here’s a closer look at their career trajectories:

Cory Bird's Career

Cory has made a name for himself in the sports community, engaging in various initiatives to support youth sports programs. His commitment to fostering talent and providing opportunities for young athletes echoes his father's dedication to the game.

Edward Bird's Career

Edward has built a successful career in business, working with several companies and contributing to philanthropic efforts. His ability to balance professional success with community involvement showcases the lessons learned from Larry Bird.

Merrie Bird's Career

Merrie has taken her passion for the arts and turned it into a career, participating in various projects and exhibitions. Her creativity and determination reflect the values her father instilled in her, demonstrating that success comes in many forms.

The Impact of Being Larry Bird's Children

Being the children of a basketball legend comes with its own set of challenges and expectations. While they each strive to carve out their own identities, they also face the weight of their father's legacy. However, Larry Bird's influence has equipped them with the tools necessary to navigate this complex landscape.

Many children of celebrities often struggle with the pressure to live up to their parents’ achievements. In the case of Larry Bird's kids, they have embraced their father's teachings and created their own paths, contributing positively to their communities while maintaining their personal identities.

Conclusion

Larry Bird's children are a testament to the values and lessons he has imparted throughout their lives. From Cory's commitment to sports development to Edward's business acumen and Merrie's artistic pursuits, each child has embraced their unique path while honoring their father's legacy. As they continue to grow and evolve, they carry forward the principles of hard work, integrity, and resilience instilled in them by Larry Bird.

We invite you to share your thoughts on Larry Bird and his family in the comments below. Did you find this article informative? If so, consider sharing it with fellow basketball fans or exploring other articles on our site!

Sources

• Basketball Reference - Larry Bird
• NBA History - Larry Bird Biography
• ESPN - Larry Bird