Larry Bird is more than just a basketball icon; he is one of the most influential figures in the history of American sports. Known for his sharp shooting, fierce competitiveness, and unmatched work ethic, Bird’s impact on the NBA has spanned generations. Even decades after his retirement from professional play, fans still revere his achievements and continue to follow news about his life and health.
As of May 2025, Larry Bird is alive. At 68 years old, he remains a respected presence in the basketball world, particularly through his longstanding relationship with the Indiana Pacers. While he values his privacy, Bird occasionally makes public appearances and continues to inspire players, executives, and fans alike.
A Humble Beginning in French Lick
Larry Joe Bird was born on December 7, 1956, in West Baden Springs, Indiana, and raised in the nearby town of French Lick. His small-town roots shaped his persona—hardworking, tough, and unpretentious. Bird’s early years were marked by economic hardship, family struggles, and personal resilience. Sports became his outlet, and basketball quickly emerged as his primary passion.
After initially enrolling at Indiana University, Bird transferred to Indiana State University, where he would elevate the basketball program to national prominence. By his senior year, he had led the Indiana State Sycamores to the 1979 NCAA Championship game, where they faced Michigan State and Magic Johnson. That game launched a rivalry that would change basketball history.
NBA Stardom with the Boston Celtics
Larry Bird was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1978, but he joined the team officially in the 1979–80 season. He quickly made his mark, earning the NBA Rookie of the Year award. Over the next 13 seasons, Bird became one of the league’s most celebrated and accomplished players.
He led the Celtics to three NBA Championships in 1981, 1984, and 1986. His individual honors included three consecutive MVP awards from 1984 to 1986, an extraordinary achievement shared by only a few players in NBA history. Bird was known for his court vision, basketball IQ, and ability to perform under pressure, making him one of the game’s most clutch performers.
Legendary Rivalry with Magic Johnson
One of the defining storylines of Bird’s career was his rivalry with Magic Johnson. The two athletes first met in the 1979 NCAA Championship and continued to clash throughout the 1980s as leaders of the Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers, respectively.
Their rivalry revitalized the NBA at a time when the league struggled with declining viewership. Their contrasting personalities—Bird, the blue-collar shooter from Indiana, and Magic, the charismatic playmaker from Michigan—captivated audiences and helped usher the NBA into a new era of popularity. Off the court, the two developed mutual respect and later a lasting friendship.
Transition to Coaching and Management
Chronic back issues forced Bird to retire from professional basketball in 1992. However, his love for the game never faded. In 1997, Bird returned to the NBA as head coach of the Indiana Pacers. Under his leadership, the team improved significantly, and he was named NBA Coach of the Year in his first season.
He coached the Pacers to the 2000 NBA Finals, where they lost to the Lakers. Following his coaching tenure, Bird served as President of Basketball Operations for the Pacers, eventually earning the NBA Executive of the Year award in 2012. He is the only person in NBA history to be named MVP, Coach of the Year, and Executive of the Year.
Health Challenges and Public Speculation
Throughout his career and retirement, Larry Bird has struggled with chronic back pain, the primary reason for his early departure from the NBA. His playing style, which involved intense physical effort and frequent diving for loose balls, took a toll on his body. Multiple surgeries over the years have helped manage the condition, but his movements remain limited.
In recent years, some false rumors have circulated online regarding Bird’s health and even his death. These unfounded claims gained brief attention on social media platforms, prompting concern among fans. However, credible sources have confirmed that Bird remains alive, albeit less publicly active.
Where Is Larry Bird Now?
Larry Bird now resides in Indiana, where he maintains a low profile. Although no longer serving in an executive capacity, he returned in a consulting role with the Indiana Pacers in 2023. He occasionally attends games and special events but generally avoids media appearances.
In 2024, Bird attended the opening of the Larry Bird Museum in Terre Haute, Indiana. The museum celebrates his legacy and houses memorabilia from his high school, college, and NBA career. The event attracted national attention and served as a reminder of Bird’s enduring impact on the sport and the state of Indiana.
Bird’s Lasting Legacy in Basketball
Larry Bird’s legacy is deeply entrenched in NBA history. His statistical achievements include:
- 24.3 points per game career scoring average
- 10 rebounds per game
- 6.3 assists per game
- 12-time NBA All-Star
- Three-time NBA Champion
- Member of the NBA’s 50th and 75th Anniversary Teams
Beyond numbers, Bird represented the ideal combination of skill, grit, and leadership. He was known for outworking opponents, making teammates better, and playing through pain. His influence can still be seen in how modern forwards approach the game—with versatility, range, and high basketball intelligence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Larry Bird still alive in 2025?
Yes, Larry Bird is alive as of May 2025. He remains a revered figure in basketball and currently resides in Indiana.
What is Larry Bird doing now?
Bird works in a consultant role with the Indiana Pacers and remains involved with basketball on a strategic level, though he avoids the public spotlight.
Did Larry Bird have serious health issues?
Bird has suffered from chronic back pain since his playing days, which led to his early retirement. He has undergone treatment but continues to manage the condition.
Why did Larry Bird retire from playing basketball?
He retired in 1992 due to severe back injuries that made it increasingly difficult for him to perform at a high level.
What are some of Larry Bird’s career achievements?
Larry Bird is a three-time NBA Champion, three-time MVP, 12-time All-Star, and the only person in NBA history to be named MVP, Coach of the Year, and Executive of the Year.
Conclusion
Larry Bird is very much alive in 2025, though he maintains a quiet and private lifestyle. His health is stable, and he continues to contribute to the game he helped shape through his advisory work with the Indiana Pacers. Bird’s life and career serve as a model of excellence, perseverance, and humility.
From his small-town roots to his emergence as one of the greatest players of all time, Larry Bird remains a symbol of what hard work and determination can achieve. While he may no longer be in the headlines daily, his influence on basketball—and sports culture as a whole—is permanent and profound.