Tony Massenburg on what it was like playing with Larry Bird on the Boston Celtics…

Tony Massenburg, who played for the Boston Celtics during the 1993-94 NBA season, has spoken fondly about his time with the legendary Larry Bird. While Massenburg’s stint with the Celtics was brief, playing alongside Bird left a lasting impression. Bird, known for his fierce competitiveness and incredible basketball IQ, was already a few years past his prime, but his presence and leadership still resonated strongly within the team.

Massenburg recalls how Bird’s work ethic and knowledge of the game were unmatched. Despite dealing with injuries, Bird’s ability to impact the game never waned. Massenburg admired Bird’s basketball intelligence, observing how he could read the game and make plays that others wouldn’t even think of. Bird wasn’t just a scorer or a passer—he was a player who could control the tempo of the game, always making the right decisions at the right time.

For Massenburg, playing with Bird was a unique experience. He described Bird as a player who demanded the best from his teammates, not through loud speeches, but through his actions on the court.

Bird’s leadership style was based on setting an example, and Massenburg appreciated the way Bird held everyone to a high standard. Although Bird was often in pain due to his back issues, he never showed weakness and maintained a level of focus and determination that inspired those around him.

Massenburg’s time with the Celtics was short-lived, but the opportunity to share the court with a player of Bird’s caliber left him with a deep respect for the basketball icon. Bird’s influence on Massenburg was not just about the game itself but about how to approach the sport with discipline, respect, and unwavering commitment.