Before the Legend: Larry Bird's High School Years

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This podcast episode explores Larry Bird's formative high school
years in French Lick, Indiana. Growing up in poverty with a
father battling PTSD, Bird developed a sense of grit and
determination early on. His older brother's basketball
scholarship showed him a path to a different future. The episode
tracks Bird's early successes, such as clutch free throws, and
how playing under the shadow of Steve Land, a future Indiana
University player, pushed him to refine his unique skillset,
especially the art of the assist. Local sports writer Jerry Burge
becomes a key figure, championing Bird's talent in the Jasper
Herald. During Bird's senior year, his physical transformation
led to dominant performances and record-breaking stats,
generating buzz and even drawing the attention of coach Bob
Knight. The episode recounts a legendary, close matchup against
Loogootee, a controversial loss, and Bird's initial omission from
the Indiana All-State team, which Burge fought hard to rectify.
After high school, Bird faced challenges, including his father's
passing and a short-lived stint at Indiana University, but
ultimately chose to continue his basketball journey at Indiana
State. The episode concludes by reflecting on Bird's journey and
the potential for overlooked talent, encouraging listeners to
recognize greatness in unexpected places.


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