RealGM

Bird believes a team of winners will fill seats
By Mike Wells
Posted: September 29, 2008

Larry Bird built a Hall of Fame career out of hard work and a nearly unmatched desire to win.

Few things infuriate him more than players who don't share his dedication, unselfishness and professionalism.

That's what made the past few seasons so difficult to stomach.

The Indiana Pacers president often squirmed in his seat while watching a poor defensive team on the court and uttered words not meant for young children after some of the things his players did off the court.

With victories and attendance declining, Bird knew almost everything had to change. No longer sharing the gavel with Donnie Walsh, he wasted little time dropping the hammer.

Full article here:
http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080929/SPORTS04/809290344/1004/SPORTS

That's a great read. I certainly respect the team a hell of a lot more now than in the last couple of years. And this has been the most excitement I have had to see the team play since Reggie retired. I cannot wait to get my league pass and see how this new team is going to come together.

Hell of a job Larry. I know he has gotten a lot of gruff in the past from fans (including myself)...but I think I actually do trust him now. The JO trade was great, and the draft was excellent. And something tells me the Tinsley trade will make us smile...because if he was just going to pull off a trade for a Marcus Banks, we could have already had a deal like that but he is holding off.

I can't wait.

Thanks for posting...

I think he'd right, but it'll also take a season or so of good behavior.