"I really don't like talking about money. All I can say is that the Good Lord must have wanted me to have it"

Larry Bird’s words reflect a deep discomfort with discussing wealth and financial success. Rather than taking direct credit for the fortune he has acquired through his talent and hard work, Bird diverts attention from himself by attributing his wealth to a higher power, suggesting that it is part of a greater destiny beyond his control. This humility stands in stark contrast to many celebrities and athletes who openly flaunt or discuss their financial achievements. For Bird, money is not a topic he enjoys discussing, perhaps because it can evoke envy, resentment, or shift focus away from what he truly values about his career, passion for basketball, personal growth, and team accomplishment.

His invocation of the “Good Lord” highlights both his reluctance to claim ownership over his success and his belief that certain elements of life are governed by fate, luck, or divine intervention. Bird does not deny his effort, but he refrains from framing his riches solely as a result of personal merit. This could suggest an awareness of the broader circumstances that enabled his achievements, support from coaches, family, or the mere fortune of being born with unique abilities in a particular era. For him, humility may be a means of honoring the countless variables outside his control, as well as those who helped him along his path.

Bird’s attitude also touches on the complexities surrounding the topics of fame and wealth in sports. While fans and the media often fixate on salaries and endorsements, athletes like Bird may identify more with the joy of playing, competition, and the relationships they forge. His reluctance to talk about money could stem from a desire to remain grounded, authentic, and connected to his roots. Rather than using wealth as a measure of identity or success, he suggests that purpose, passion, and perhaps faith hold greater significance.