2020 October Legends Closing Oct 31 & Nov 1
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/31/2020
After leading the Boston Celtics to the NBA title in 1981, in only his second season, Larry Bird and the Celtics had two disappointing playoff losses to the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1982 Eastern Conference Finals and to the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1983 Eastern Conference Semi Finals. Bird and the Celtics rebounded during the 1983-84 season finishing with an NBA best 62-20 regular season record, with Bird earning the regular season MVP honors – the first of three consecutive seasons.
Bird led the Celtics through the Eastern Conference gauntlet, winning series against the Washington Bullets, New York Knicks and Milwaukee Bucks. This set up a classic showdown with the hated Los Angeles Lakers. The Celtics fell behind 2-1 in the series, which included a 137-104 drubbing at The Forum where Bird called out his teammates for their lack of toughness. Despite falling behind in Game 4, Bird led the Celtics to a 129-125 overtime victory to even the series and Boston would win each of their home games to capture the franchise’s 15th NBA title with Bird winning the NBA Finals MVP.
Offered here is one of the finest Larry Bird Boston Celtics game used jerseys ever put up for auction. This home white cheesecloth pullover jersey was worn by Bird during the historic 1983-84 championship season. This jersey was manufactured by Sand-Knit and is a size 46. “CELTICS” is arched across the chest and Bird’s number “33” are both sewn on in green tackle twill. The “Designed & Tailored Exclusively for the BOSTON CELTICS” and “Sand-Knit 46” tags are sewn on the front left tail. The open sleeves and rounded collar are bordered in the Celtics classic green/white/green striping pattern. The back of the jersey has “BIRD” and “33” sewn on in green tackle twill. This jersey displays moderate use and comes with a LOA from MEARS (317322) for the game use and has been given the highest possible grade of A10. Additionally, there is a letter of provenance from the late Grant Gray, who served as Director of Team Security & Director of Team Practice Facility for three decades, stating that he obtained this jersey from Larry Bird and that the jersey has been in his personal collection.