The Boston Celtics franchise marks a legendary anniversary today, celebrating Larry Bird's 1979 debut and the first 3-point field goal in NBA history. Bird's first game for the Celtics coincided with teammate Chris Ford making that historic shot, forever linking two iconic moments. The current Celtics are coming off a dominant 144-106 preseason win over the Philadelphia 76ers on October 10, showing their offensive firepower as they build toward the new season.
Larry Bird played his first NBA game for the Boston Celtics on October 12, 1979, against the Houston Rockets. The forward from French Lick, Indiana, was the team's sixth overall pick in the 1978 draft. Celtics president Red Auerbach had used a draft loophole to select Bird a year early, securing his rights after his junior season at Indiana State. Bird's debut wasn't the only history made that night. Celtics shooting guard Chris Ford sank the first official 3-pointer in NBA regular season history during the contest.
Bird's impact on the Celtics and the NBA was immediate and profound. He wasn't just a scorer; he was a complete player who could rebound, pass, and defend. Over 13 seasons, all with Boston, he compiled a staggering resume. Bird won three NBA championships in 1981, 1984, and 1986. He earned three consecutive MVP awards from 1984 to 1986 and was named Finals MVP twice. His career averages of 24.3 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game highlight his all-around dominance. He made 12 All-Star teams and was selected to 10 All-NBA squads.
The modern Boston Celtics are tuning up for the 2026-27 campaign with a strong preseason. Following a 124-113 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on October 8, they posted a massive 144-106 win against the Philadelphia 76ers just two days later. These exhibition games are a chance for the roster to build chemistry and for the coaching staff to evaluate rotations. The high-scoring output, particularly in the last game, suggests the team's offensive systems are clicking early.
The Celtics' preseason schedule continues tonight, October 14, with a home game against the Charlotte Hornets. It's another opportunity for the squad to refine its play before the regular season tips off. Focusing on defensive communication and executing half-court sets will likely be priorities against the Hornets. For fans, it's a final glimpse of the team in a game-like setting before the games start to count. The energy from celebrating franchise legends like Larry Bird often fuels the current group as they work to add to the Celtics' storied history.
