Boston Celtics legend Larry Bird has had an interesting relationship with fans. There have been instances when Bird has been subjected to abusive language and also mobbed by both home and away fans.

Moreover, certain fans hurled abuses at the former NBA champion unnecessarily. Whenever Bird refused an autograph, the passionate fans would let their emotions be known to the NBA superstar. Interestingly enough, sometimes even Bird got back at them in his usual funny way.

Fans would often hurl abuses at Larry Bird for refusing to sign autographs

During his time in the NBA, Larry Bird was usually one of the best players in the league. Needless to say, he had an immense fan following across the world. Wherever Bird went, huge crowds followed.

However, sometimes interactions with fans would turn ugly. Fans would demand the Boston Celtics legend to sign autographs and whenever he refused, they would get at him. According to a 1991 article, the former NBA champion hated the hypocrisy of the autograph game.

“Bird hates the hypocrisy of the whole autograph game: “These guys, most of ’em, will say, ‘Hey, Larry, you’re the greatest,’ and when I don’t sign three autographs for ’em, they’ll turn around and say, ‘A**hole. Piece of sh*t. Hey, what an asshole Larry Bird is.'”, said the report.

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Interestingly enough, away fans would also sometimes trash-talk Bird. In fact, they would say stuff like, ”You know, we’re gonna kick your ass tonight.'” Larry Bird would always get back at the fan and ask him how many baskets is he going to score considering he is using the word, ‘we’.

Bird hated the fascination people had with celebrities

Larry Bird’s fame during his time in the league was only matched by Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson and later Michael Jordan. In his book, he touched upon fame and how he hates people idolizing celebrities and athletes.

He wrote, “To be honest? I don’t understand the attraction of celebrities.” However, he always respected the fans who came to watch the game although they had seats far away from the action.

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What is your favorite memory of Larry Bird? Let us know in the comments down below.