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In addition to his shooting accolades, Bird boasts a rare five-year stretch during which he achieved the elusive 50-40-90 shooting percentage while averaging nearly 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists each game. This combination of scoring efficiency and volume sets Bird apart among his peers.
Misconceptions About His Defense
A common narrative among younger fans is that Larry Bird was a subpar defender; however, this assertion is grossly misleading. While it is true that Bird's athleticism is sometimes depicted as below standard, his defensive abilities were marked by intelligence, hustle, and effort. Bird possessed the size and anticipation to be a highly effective defender, making him a formidable opponent on that end of the court.