NBC Universal, Inc.: Celebrating Mike Gorman’s Farewell Season with Larry Bird’s Legendary Passes.
Welcome to the quietest stretch of the American sports calendar, the three days each year when no major leagues have official games. During this downtime, it’s the perfect moment to revisit some unforgettable moments in sports history. In honor of Mike Gorman’s farewell season, we’re taking a look back at his most memorable calls of Larry Bird’s iconic passes.
Larry Bird, the Celtics Hall of Famer and all-time NBA great, is often described with phrases like “can’t run, can’t jump,” underscoring his perceived lack of athleticism. However, Bird’s career is filled with moments that defy this stereotype, particularly his jaw-dropping plays early in his career.
One of the most unexpectedly
In the clip, Bird upfakes aging Hall of Famer Elvin Hayes on the left side, drives through the paint, and takes flight over a helpless Wally Walker. With two powerful strides and full extension, Bird delivers a thunderous dunk, evoking the athleticism of Tatum, who uses his wingspan to dominate in traffic.
Gorman’s call of this moment, like many of his calls of Bird’s spectacular plays, captures the excitement and surprise of seeing Bird defy expectations. This dunk, in particular, showcases Bird’s underrated athleticism and cements his legacy as more than just a shooter and passer.
As we reflect on Mike Gorman’s storied career, filled with countless unforgettable moments, it’s fitting to highlight the high-flying, dynamic side of Larry Bird that Gorman so eloquently brought to life for Celtics fans.
File this one under: High-flying Bird.
