In a recent interview, former NBA player and current Celtics executive Danny Ainge shed light on the infamous altercation between Larry Bird and Julius Erving, revealing the words that sparked the incident. Recalling the heated moment during a 1984 playoff game between the Boston Celtics and the Philadelphia 76ers, Ainge disclosed that Bird’s comment about the reigning MVP Moses Malone being the best player he’d ever played against was the catalyst.
According to Ainge, Bird’s exact words were, “I think Moses is the best player I’ve ever played against.” This seemingly innocuous praise ignited Erving, who took it as a slight against his own abilities and a direct comparison between him and Malone. The tension escalated quickly on the court, resulting in Erving confronting Bird, leading to a shoving match that almost escalated into a full-blown brawl before teammates and officials intervened.
The incident highlighted the intense rivalry between the Celtics and the 76ers during that era, where Bird and Erving were not only competing for championships but also for personal accolades and respect within the league. Ainge emphasized that such moments were part of the competitive spirit of the game back then, where emotions often ran high, but respect between players ultimately prevailed.
Reflecting on the incident over the years, both Bird and Erving have acknowledged the competitiveness of the era and the respect they held for each other’s talents. Despite their heated exchanges on the court, both legends maintained a mutual admiration off the court, recognizing each other’s contributions to the game of basketball.
As Ainge concluded his recounting of the event, he highlighted how such incidents helped define the NBA’s golden age, where rivalries and personal clashes added drama and excitement to the sport, leaving an indelible mark on basketball history.
