Few players changed the landscape of the NBA in the 1980s as much as Boston Celtics legend Larry Bird. A three-time NBA champion with the Celtics, Bird not only made his mark as one of the greatest players of all time but also had a notable career as a head coach. One of his former players, Golden State Warriors icon Chris Mullin, recently shared a surprising anecdote about Bird’s coaching style.
Becoming a Hall of Famer wasn’t a matter of luck for Bird. He helped shape a culture in Boston and across the NBA that emphasized toughness and competitive spirit. Bird was known for his ability to dominate on both ends of the floor, particularly his physical style of play, which became a model for future generations.
After a storied 12-year playing career, Celtics legend transitioned into coaching, taking the helm of the Indiana Pacers. In just three seasons as head coach, Bird led the Pacers to an Eastern Conference championship. During that time, Mullin was on the roster, and he recalled a memorable moment with Bird during one particular game.
“Larry was so blunt and to the point that one time at halftime in Milwaukee, I was 4-for-9 and not playing great. He said, ‘Mully, come here. You make a f*** shot or what? Keep it simple or I’ll kick you out,'” Mullin told the All The Smoke podcast.
Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame 2011 inductee Chris Mullin looks on during halftime of the National Championship Game of the 2011 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament at Reliant Stadium on April 4, 2011 in Houston, Texas.
Bird’s coaching tactics with the players in Indiana
Mullin recently shared a story about Bird, one of many anecdotes he has from his time as a player under Bird’s coaching. The Warriors icon reflected on Bird’s approach to leadership, noting that the Hall of Famer always treated his players with respect, whether the message was good or bad, it was delivered privately.
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“He was always honest with you [Larry Bird]. But he did it directly to you, not in front of everybody, which makes it even more impactful. As a coach, you had to be on time, play unselfish, and always give your best effort,“ Warriors icon said, describing Bird’s approach to coaching the Indiana Pacers.
Mullin also emphasized Bird’s commitment to punctuality. He recalled an instance when a teammate was late to practice, and Bird simply left the city with the rest of the team, flying out without the late player. It was a clear demonstration of how seriously Bird took time and discipline.
Mullin’s impact in Indiana
During his 16-year NBA career, Mullin played 179 games with the Pacers. He averaged 9.4 points, 1.7 assists, and 2.7 rebounds per game while shooting 91 percent from the free-throw line.
Mullin’s contributions helped the Pacers reach the Eastern Conference Championship in the 1999-2000 season. After two appearances in the Eastern Conference Finals, the Pacers finally secured the title, but they fell short in the NBA Finals, losing to the Los Angeles Lakers.
