Michael Jordan always came across as a blunt and harsh figure while talking about basketball. Because Larry Bird‘s game was so flawless, it was very hard to critique. In 1987, The Chicago Tribune, a historic paper, ran a humorous survey discussing Bird’s shortcomings. They decided to ask 15 well-known people, including Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley.
Jokingly acknowledging this fact, MJ went on to profusely compliment his idol. He said,
”He can’t jump, and he’s not quick… But you can’t increase your jumping ability or your quickness. He makes up for it by using his head, analyzing the opponent. It makes him better than the competition. Consequently, he doesn’t have a weakness.”
No matter who the subject of interest is, it takes courage to claim that someone lacks a vulnerability. But that’s simply how excellent Bird was when he played in the NBA.
The former Boston Celtics icon accomplished it all before his back problems finally caused him to slow down. Even if it was occasionally dubious, his defense was strong. His playwriting was incredibly imaginative. And his score – praise be to God! Like there was no tomorrow, he would call people names and kick them in the ass.
Charles Barkley’s take on Michael Jordan highlighting Larry Bird’s weakness
In the past, Charles Barkley used to love to declare himself the greatest. However, even he was moved to express gratitude to the basketball gods for “making things fair.” He said:
“Larry [Bird] can’t run or jump cause that was God’s way of making things fair.”
“Larry can’t run or jump cause that was God’s way of making things fair.”
– Sir Charles Barkley.pic.twitter.com/IniFZ4GMUJ— Hoop History (@H00PHISTORY) November 9, 2021
Blaming Barkley for his remarks on this subject is difficult. It seemed ridiculous to even consider adding athleticism to the amazing player that the Celtics icon was already. It was obvious that Bird was one of those athletes who could make any other player he faced dread for their lives.
