Larry Bird Drafted (1978)
The Hick from French Lick became a Celtic legend.
Larry Bird was selected by the Boston Celtics with the sixth overall pick in the 1978 NBA draft. He did not sign with the Celtics immediately; instead, Bird played out his final season at Indiana State and led the Sycamores to the NCAA title game. After protracted negotiations, he signed a five-year, $3.25 million contract with the team on June 8, 1979, making Bird the highest-paid rookie in sports history.
Quick Facts
- Draft year
- 1978
- Pick number
- 6th overall
- College
- Indiana State University
- Position
- Small Forward
- Immediate status
- Deferred entry (returned to college)
- Role
- Franchise Cornerstone
Lore & Background
Celtics general manager Red Auerbach publicly stated that he would not pay Bird more than any Celtic on the current roster, but Bird's agent Bob Woolf told Auerbach that Bird would reject any sub-market offers and simply enter the 1979 draft instead, where Boston's rights would expire when the draft began on June 25, and Bird would have been the likely top pick. Shortly afterwards, NBA draft eligibility rules were changed to prevent teams from drafting players before they were ready to sign, a rule known as the Bird Collegiate Rule.
Reader's Guide
Bird entered the NBA for the 1979–80 season, where he made an immediate impact, leading the Celtics to a 32-win improvement over the previous season. He played for the Celtics during his entire 13-season professional career, leading them to five NBA Finals appearances and three NBA championships.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Larry Bird drafted by the Boston Celtics?
The Celtics selected him sixth overall during the 1978 NBA Draft. This choice secured his rights even though he delayed joining the league for another year.
Why did Larry Bird return to college after being picked in 1978?
He utilized NCAA eligibility rules to complete his final year at Indiana State University instead of signing right away. For one full season, the Celtics held his rights while the public followed his college games on television.
What position did Larry Bird play when drafted?
He was chosen as a small forward destined to become the team's cornerstone. His skills transformed the roster and revitalized the franchise immediately upon his arrival.
How important is the 1978 draft pick to Celtics history?
It stands as the defining event in modern team history because it rescued a struggling organization. This choice established a legacy that changed how fans viewed the franchise forever.
Did Larry Bird sign with Boston immediately after the 1978 Draft?
No, he deferred entry to finish his education at Indiana State for one more season. The Celtics held his rights during this waiting period before he officially joined the team.
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