How Old Was Larry Bird When He Got Drafted

So, you're wondering, "How old was Larry Bird when he got drafted?" Let's dive in, shall we?

Larry's College Days

Larry Legend, as he's fondly known, wasn't your typical overnight sensation. He spent four years at Indiana State, honing his skills and becoming a college basketball phenomenon. By the time he graduated in 1979, he was a two-time All-American and had led his team to the NCAA championship game.

Now, you might be thinking, "That's great, but how old was he?" Well, Larry was 22 when he graduated. But here's where it gets interesting.

Draft Day Delay

The NBA draft was held on June 9, 1979. But Larry didn't join the festivities right away. Why? Because he was busy playing in the Pan American Games! Yes, you heard it right. Larry was representing the good ol' US of A in basketball, and he didn't want to miss that.

So, he didn't get drafted until June 15. And when he did, he was the sixth pick by the Boston Celtics. But here's the kicker - Larry was 23 years, 32 days old when he was drafted. Talk about making an entrance!

The Story of How the Boston Celtics Drafted Larry Bird | NBC Sports

Why Does This Matter?

You might be wondering, "Why should I care how old Larry Bird was when he got drafted?" Well, here's why it's just plain fun to talk about.

First off, it's a testament to Larry's dedication. He didn't rush into the NBA. He took his time, honed his skills, and made sure he was ready. That's something we can all appreciate, right?

Secondly, it's a quirky fact that adds to Larry's legend. He's not just a basketball great, he's a character. And every great character has a unique story. Like how he was drafted at an age when some people are still trying to figure out what they want to do with their lives.

On This Day, June 9th - Page 3 of 3

Lastly, it's just a fun fact to pull out at a party or a barbecue. "Did you know Larry Bird was 23 when he got drafted?" It's a conversation starter, a trivia tidbit, a piece of basketball history that's just plain fun to know.

Larry's Legacy

So, there you have it. Larry Bird was 23 years, 32 days old when he was drafted. And the rest, as they say, is history. He went on to become one of the greatest basketball players of all time, winning three NBA championships and three MVP awards with the Celtics.

But it all started on that day in June, 1979. When a 23-year-old Larry Bird was drafted, and the world of basketball was forever changed.