Rare Photos of Larry Bird

Bird and his Indiana State Sycamores burst onto the scene in 1977. In this photo for a SI cover shoot, Bird poses with two ISU cheerleaders.

Bird and longtime rival Magic Johnson pose for a shot at the 1979 Final Four.

Bird gives Johnson a helping hand during the NCAA Championship game in Salt Lake City.

Bird became the richest rookie in sports history when he signed a five-year, $3.25 million contract in 1979. To Bird's left is Celtics President Red Auerbach and to his right is head coach Bill Fitch.

Bird tosses a pass behind his back to Cedric Maxwell during a game against the Rockets.

Bill Russell poses with Bird before a preseason game.

Bird converts on a reverse layup during a game against the Pistons.

Bird stretches before a game against the Knicks.

Bird and Celtics president Red Auerbach pose at the unveiling of a Leroy Nieman potrait of the Celtics star during his retirement ceremonies.

Bird was featured on the cover of Frosted Mini-Wheats during the 1992 Olympics.

Boston Celtics celebrating Red Auerbach's 75th birthday.

The Pacers coachposes for an SI cover shoot.

Bird stands with Pacers head coach Isiah Thomas and Pacers CEO Donnie Walsh after Bird was named President of Basketball Operations.

Jermaine O'Neal talks with Bird after the announcement of O'Neal's new seven-year contract.

Reggie Miller greets Larry Bird during the Pacers' media day in Indianapolis.

Bird presents Michael Phelps with a team jersey at Conseco Fieldhouse. The No. 7 on the jersey represents the number of gold medals Phelps was expected to compete for in the 2004 Olympics.

Bird poses with Ron Artest at an SI photo shoot for the 2005-06 NBA preview.

This is the Converse Weapon worn by Larry Bird during the 1986 season. It is on display at the Basketball Hall of Fame.

Bird shows off his guns during a pre-draft camp in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.

Magic Johnson and Larry Bird share a laugh at a news conference before the 2009 NCAA championship game between Michigan State and North Carolina.