The NBA’s All-Star game in recent years has seen fans and analysts voice their frustrations watching it turn into a snoozefest. Players nowadays do not want to compete and show their disregard when asked to be a part of it. This happens to be a far cry from the times when legend of the game, Larry Bird, used to play.
Up until the mid-2010’s, the All-Star game was a matter of pride. Players strived to be a part of the game, pushing themselves to play at their best with their own franchises. Then when the game arrived, they would listen to the coaches but also have their own pride at stake.
That pride came to the forefront as players battled for possession as they wanted to beat their rivals. Sportswriter Bob Ryan had a conversation with Bird about the All-Star game and discussed on The Bob Ryan and Jerry Goodman Podcast how the legend approached the game in his days.
I wanted to win. We played competitive games. We did not want anybody to get hurt, we didn’t go nuts. But we played basketball, and we wanted to win.
Bob Ryan on Larry Bird’s approach to All-Star games
Larry Bird‘s words suggest he and the All-Stars back in the day used to compete to win. They would not go over the top wherein it risks injury, but they never wavered in their quest to be the best. In comparison, today’s All-Star game is nothing like it. That is why, he is not happy with what the NBA is producing every year.
Larry Bird did not want to go to last year’s ‘disgusting’ NBA All-Star game
The All-Star game nowadays has become a time in between the season when players enjoy themselves. Those who are not selected enjoy rest at home, whereas those who are selected, enjoy the festivities at the venue.
Bob Ryan details the Hall of Famer‘s reaction when asked to be at the All-Star weekend this past year.
He’s disgusted. He was invited last year; he thought it’s a joke.
Bob Ryan quoting Larry Bird
From a legend who was known for his competitive battles during his days, this may not come as a surprise. But the soon to be 68-year-old did end up being a part of a discussion with Isiah Thomas and Reggie Miller prior to the game.
Since the Boston Celtics legend is from Indianapolis, he probably had no choice but to be there. However, he was not appreciative of what the game he loved has transpired into. Now players have turned the All-Star game into an elaborate scrimmage.
