Indiana Pacers Larry Bird has called it quits.
Both a Hall of Famer, and reigning NBA Executive of the Year has reported “unspecified health problems” are the reason behind his decision to leave the organization.
Bird earned $1 million this year, and became the first person to be named Executive of the Year, Coach of the Year, when coaching the Pacers in ‘98, and Most Valuable Player, which he earned while playing with Boston.
Although the NBA legend will be leaving the front office, his presence was significant. The Pacers made the playoffs in 2011 for the first time since 2006. The squad made it past Orlando in the first round, getting a 2-1 lead in the semi-finals, only to lose the next six to the Miami Heat, ending their season.
Bird told media last month,
“This is one of the best locker rooms we’ve had. The attitude has changed in the last few years, and it’s been a breath of fresh air. These kids have come in here. They were dedicated. We didn’t have any problems.”
Kevin Pritchard will replace Bird as the general manager.
While the beloved former CEO, Donnie Walsh, is rumored to take Bird’s title of president.
