That's how little attraction the league had.
The rivalry between Bird and Magic changed that.
I've watched a lot of videos with other players talking about Bird. The players recognized him for the talent he was. Yeah, he was a white guy playing a game dominated by blacks, but none seemed to care about the color of the skin....rather, could Bird play the game.
And could he.
A quick Larry Bird story.
Years ago, at a celebrity golf and tennis event I saw several people attempt to lob the tennis ball over Larry’s head.
It was not a good strategy.
It is sad Bird got injured at the end of his career or would have won another title or two. Greatest team ever and most clutch shooter.
the 1979 Michigan State - Indiana State final with Magic vs Bird really put NCAA basketball on the map...and they took it right into the NBA. Those 2 did save that league....