"I've got to give Larry Bird his due; he was a great player. He knew the game and he was smart"

The quote credited to Dennis Rodman about Larry Bird, "I have actually got to give Larry Bird his due; he was a great player. He understood the game and he was clever", uses a concise but abundant view into the respect and admiration one remarkable basketball gamer holds for another.

Dennis Rodman, known for his protective prowess, rebounding ability, and dynamic personality, here acknowledges Larry Bird-- a player celebrated for his scoring, clutch efficiency, and basketball intelligence. Rodman's acknowledgment of Bird's success highlights several notable aspects of Bird's tradition. Firstly, when Rodman states that Bird was a "fantastic player", he is admitting Bird's superiority and skills, which were evident in Bird's 3 NBA championships, three consecutive MVP awards (1984-1986), and constant performance as a member of the Boston Celtics throughout the 1980s. Bird's versatility-- his capability to shoot, pass, and rebound at high levels-- made him a formidable opponent on the court.

Secondly, Rodman's remark, "He knew the game", refers to Bird's popular basketball IQ. Bird had an exceptional understanding of the game, which manifested through his capability to check out plays, expect opponents' moves, and make clever choices. His strategic and instinctive approach often left protectors like Rodman himself having a hard time to include his effect throughout crucial moments in a video game.

Lastly, explaining Bird as "wise" encapsulates his tactical acumen and psychological fortitude. Bird was understood for utilizing his intelligence not only to outmaneuver opponents physically but also psychologically. He was popular for his mental durability and often taken part in mind video games, daunting his competitors with a mix of self-confidence and trash talk, all while remaining calm under pressure.

In essence, Dennis Rodman's admission admires the detailed excellence that Larry Bird gave basketball. It represents sportsmanship and the acknowledgment of raw talent and strategic sparkle, going beyond personal rivalries and emphasizing the regard that true mastery of the game commands from fellow athletes.