“Guys don’t do that today” - When Larry Bird confidently winked at a columnist before entering the NBA history books

While many once-in-a-lifetime talents exude extreme confidence in their abilities, few are able to back it up. However, Larry Bird was one player who never hesitated to show his cockiness, but he had the talent to justify his antics, and Boston Globe columnist Dan Shaughnessy witnessed this firsthand.

Larry Legend showboated in front of Shaughnessy

During the 1990-91 season, Bird was pursuing Calvin Murphy’s record of 78 consecutive successful free throws. Typically, players in such situations adopt a serious demeanor, focusing intently on the rim when at the free-throw line. Bird, however, approached this challenge with his trademark nonchalant.

While featuring on ‘The Rich Eisen Show,’ Sahunghnessy recounted a fascinating anecdote from this period. Intending to write about Larry Legend’s streak for the newspaper, Dan playfully urged the three-time MVP to not miss any free-throws in a particular game. That night, Larry was fouled in the first half and was sent to the FT line.

While the Celtics forward knocked the first shot with all concentration, before shooting the second attempt, he looked towards Shaughnessy and made a confident gesture.

"He looks over and winks at me before he makes the second," Shaughnessy said . "Guys don't do that today."

Ultimately, Bird’s streak ended at 71. The record was eventually broken by Micheal Williams in the 1992-93 season when the Minnesota Timberwolves guard knocked 97 consecutive free throws.

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Bird and Shaughnessy often indulged in playful banter

This was not the only time these two engaged in playful banter. When the Indiana native injured his shooting hand, Shaughnessy challenged him to a shooting contest. Despite a close first round, the two-time Finals MVP still won $160 from Dan.

"I challenged him about this taping of the hand, how he (couldn't) do that in the game, and he said, 'I could tape my whole hand up, make more shots than you.' And I'm like, 'I don’t know,' " Shaughnessy recalled , as per The Boston Globe.

Safe to say that while the 12-time All-Star was often able to stand tall on his showboating, Dan got to see those moments up close.

Bird's relationship with the media, particularly with Shaughnessy, highlighted his unique blend of confidence and camaraderie. His ability to engage playfully yet competitively with those covering the game added another layer to his legend.

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