“I think Magic’s probably as sick and tired of all this as I am” – Larry Bird once reflected on his rivalry with Magic Johnson long before it began

Larry Bird initially found the media-driven rivalry with Magic Johnson unfair, believing it overshadowed other stars and distracted from team play. He felt the focus on their individual matchup was “sad” and that Johnson likely felt the same. However, as their careers progressed and their teams clashed, this perceived rivalry evolved into an era-defining competition that revitalized the NBA.