Larry Bird or Magic Johnson and why?

Answer 1

an age old question, the answer is quite difficult. in college Larry definintly was better, he led farmer's college ISU to the national championship, heck he led them to their only NCAA tournament, while in the pro's magic did lead the Lakers to a considerable amount of NBA finals, but he did have the easier conference to go through, while Larry and the Celts got beat up in the East by teams such as the Pistons, the Bulls, and etc. my favor goes to Larry, for his sharp shooting, and his ability to be a leader, but Magic is still one of the all time greatest players

Answer 2

I'd give the slight edge to Larry Bird. He was a much better shooter (although Magic was never asked to score until later in his career), better rebounder, and more reliable in the clutch.

Both were able to elevate the levels of their teammates, and both were excellent passers. Both were great ball handlers and had great court vision. I would give the edge to Bird on defense, based on his ability to anticipate plays before they happened.

Both Bird and Magic were winners, no doubt about it. Either the Celtics or the Lakers were in the finals all throughout the 1980's, with Magic's Lakers winning 5 times to Bird's 3 championships, although I do feel that had Len Bias not died, the Celts would have prevailed in '87. Bird was MVP in '84,'85'and '86, the only non-center to win it three consecutive years, and also was rookie of the year in '79-80. He was on the all-NBA first team his first 9 years in the league.

Had it not been for the injuries, Bird would have continued to dominate well into the '90's. Those of us lucky enough to see him, witnessed what greatness is all about!

Answer 3

Magic Johnson!

Answer 4

Earvin "Magic" Johnson....this is coming from a lifelong Celtics fan. I saw the guy beat up on my team for years and still think hes quite possibly the greatest player ever. When a player can play any position on the floor well, that is true greatness. In his rookie season he scored 40 points as the starting center to win the NBA Championship, I'm sorry but my beloved Bird never did anything of the sort during his illustrious career. Magic not only out-dueled him in the NBA with 5 rings to Bird's 3, but also defeated him in their NCAA Finals match-up. If his career wasn't cut short due to the HIV Virus he would be considered the best player ever....hands down.

Answer 5

You know what? I read recently that climbing Everest is a good analogy analysing greatness. Climbing Everest is a hell of a feat, and deserving of recognition. And the thing is, when you reach the top of the mountain, it's not like you can climb any higher than the other guys. You can only join them. Same goes for great athletes. At some point, you have to admit that they were both absurdly good, and can only be placed next to eachother. I'll stick by that.
But in terms of which was my favourite, I'll go with Bird. I've always loved watching the assasins of basketball. No matter how far down their team is, and how little time there is left, you're always thinking - "If they can just get going, we can win this game." It makes every game they're in a nail biter. Reggie Miller was like that. Every time he jacked up a 3 the stadium was ready to explode. Bird was like that too. Super clutch and able to fill it up in a hurry. And strut about it. Drove other teams crazy. When you tell a guy what you're going to do, then do it in his face anyway, that's awesome. Jordan used to do it too. Oh, and Bird's passing was sublime. So fast and unexpected.

Answer 6

Magic Johnson is the ultimate team player, and Larry Bird like Kobe and Micheal a little bit of a ball hog.

Answer 7

Bird would be my pick over Magic. Bird did much more with less talent than Magic. Nobody ever said Bird was fast or a great jumper, but he certainly could beat you in many ways. Magic was very talented no doubt, but Bird was the classic overacheiver.

Answer 8

Magic Johnson. He was a good basket ball player.
He has made a few mistakes in his life, traveling a road
of uncertainty, has accepted his medical condition in stride, has taught many regarding safe sex, diseases
that can happen through unsafe sex. He is an outstanding individual with much character, pride and devotion to his family, friends, God and the inspiration in helping to find a cure for hiv and other medical diseases.
I feel he is a prominent individual and an inspiration to all.
His abilities as a basketball player was outstanding. Like many I was saddened when he could not play any longer.

Answer 9

Yes, I do like Lady Bird Johnson. She was married to President Lyndon B. Johnson. It was magic when they were in the White House together and had parties. Yep, Lady Bird Johson was quite the First Lady. I think she invented Johnson & Johnson Magic Baby Oil too. I am very good with historical facts. Someday I hope to make lots of money on JEOPARDY.

Answer 10

Larry Bird as he was more of an all round team player.