Magic Johnson And Larry Bird Saved The Nba
The 1980s were a time of great change in the NBA. The league was struggling, and many people thought it might not survive. Then two rookies came along and changed everything. Magic Johnson and Larry Bird were not only great players on the court, but they also helped to popularize the game and bring in new fans. In this article, we will look at how Magic Johnson and Larry Bird saved the NBA.
The State Of The NBA In The 1970s
In the 1970s, the NBA was in trouble. The league was struggling financially, and many games were played in half-empty arenas. The quality of play was also not very good. The league lacked star players, and the games were often slow and boring. The NBA Finals were even broadcast on tape delay, as they were not considered important enough to be shown live.
Magic Johnson And Larry Bird Enter The League
Then in 1979, two players entered the league who would change everything. Magic Johnson was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers, and Larry Bird was drafted by the Boston Celtics. Both players were highly skilled and had already achieved great success in college.
The rivalry between Johnson and Bird was intense. They were both highly competitive and wanted to win at all costs. They faced each other in three NBA Finals, with each player winning one. Their rivalry helped to bring in new fans and create excitement for the league.
The Impact Of Magic Johnson And Larry Bird
Magic Johnson and Larry Bird had a huge impact on the NBA. They helped to popularize the game and bring in new fans. They were not only great players, but they were also charismatic and likable. They were the faces of the league and helped to make the NBA cool again.
Their impact went beyond just their play on the court. They also helped to change the style of play in the NBA. Before Johnson and Bird, the game was slow and methodical. They brought a fast-paced, exciting style of play that made the game more enjoyable to watch. They also helped to bring in a new generation of players who emulated their style.
The Legacy Of Magic Johnson And Larry Bird
Magic Johnson and Larry Bird's impact on the NBA is still felt today. They helped to turn the league around and make it one of the most popular sports leagues in the world. Their rivalry helped to create a new generation of fans, and their style of play revolutionized the game.
Their legacy is also seen in the players who came after them. Players like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James all cite Johnson and Bird as their inspirations. They helped to set the standard for what it means to be a great player, both on and off the court.
Conclusion
Magic Johnson and Larry Bird saved the NBA. Their impact on the league cannot be overstated. They helped to popularize the game and bring in new fans. They changed the style of play and created a new generation of players. Their legacy is still felt today, and they will always be remembered as two of the greatest players in NBA history.