Larry Bird Married? Discover His Wife, Family & Personal Life

By Barrett Romaguera DDSMay 16, 2025

In the pantheon of basketball giants, few are spoken of with the reverence and admiration reserved for Larry Bird. But beyond the legendary fadeaway jumpers and no-look passes, lies a more personal question that intrigues many: Is Larry Bird married? Knowing the answer is more than just satisfying curiosity; it offers a glimpse into the man behind the myth, the personal life that grounded one of the sport's most iconic figures. This is the saga of a basketball icon, a deep dive into his life beyond the hardwood, meticulously examining his relationships, his family, and the personal milestones that complement his stellar career.

Born on December 7, 1956, in the unassuming town of West Baden Springs, Indiana, Larry Joe Bird's ascent to basketball stardom is the stuff of legend. As a forward for the Boston Celtics in the National Basketball Association, his career was a tapestry woven with extraordinary achievements, most notably three NBA championships and two NBA Finals MVP awards. Yet, separate from these accomplishments, his personal life has remained a focal point for fans and observers. The question of whether Larry Bird is married unlocks deeper insights into his values, shedding light on the man who captivated audiences with his on-court wizardry and his fiercely competitive spirit. His influence extended far beyond the scoresheet; it touched upon an era in basketball, defining a generation of fans captivated by his play.

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Larry Joe Bird
Date of Birth	December 7, 1956
Place of Birth	West Baden Springs, Indiana, USA
Height	6 ft 9 in (2.06 m)
Position	Small Forward / Power Forward
NBA Team (Former)	Boston Celtics
Years Active	19791992
Spouse	Dinah Mattingly (Married 1989)
Children	Corrie Bird, Matthew Bird, Marianne Bird
Hall of Fame Induction	1998
Reference	Basketball Reference Profile

The narrative of Larry Bird begins in a humble setting, the fourth child in a family of six. His father, Joe Bird, battled alcoholism, a shadow that darkened their family life. Yet, even amid these hardships, Larry's passion for basketball flourished. The local courts and gyms became his sanctuary, and he honed his skills relentlessly. At Springs Valley High School, he quickly emerged as a basketball prodigy, displaying a natural talent and competitive drive that set him apart.

That prodigious talent paved the way for a scholarship to Indiana State University, where he became the star player for the Sycamores. In 1979, he masterminded the team's journey to the NCAA championship game, a performance that electrified the nation and announced his impending arrival to the NBA. The electrifying showdown against Magic Johnson's Michigan State Spartans became a defining moment in basketball history, foreshadowing their legendary rivalry in the professional ranks.

The Boston Celtics selected Bird as the sixth overall pick in the 1978 NBA Draft, a move that would redefine the franchise's future. His arrival marked a turning point for the Celtics, initiating a resurgence that would see them reclaim their place among the league's elite. Instantly, he became a fan favorite, not just for his exceptional passing, sharpshooting, and uncanny basketball IQ, but for his unyielding determination and gritty playing style. His ability to anticipate plays, make clutch shots, and elevate his teammates made him the heart and soul of the Celtics dynasty.

During his illustrious career, Bird remained intensely private about his personal life, deflecting attention from his relationships to focus on the game. In 1989, he married Dinah Mattingly, his college sweetheart. Their relationship has been a testament to commitment and endurance, having weathered the storms that inevitably arise in the life of a public figure. Despite facing challenges, they have remained devoted to each other, building a lasting partnership.

Before finding enduring love with Dinah, Bird experienced a brief but significant relationship with Janet Condra. They married in 1975 but divorced a year later. However, their union produced a daughter, Corrie Bird, who has since carved her own path in the sports business world, carrying on the Bird legacy in a different arena. Corrie's career is a testament to her own ambition and drive, independent of her father's fame.

Larry Bird's marriage to Dinah Mattingly in 1989 cemented a bond that has been a cornerstone of his life. Their relationship is built on mutual respect, unwavering support, and a shared understanding of the demands and pressures of a life lived in the public eye. Dinah has been an essential presence in Bird's life, particularly as he transitioned from his playing days to roles as a coach and executive within the NBA, providing stability and encouragement during pivotal moments in his career.

Together, Larry Bird and Dinah Mattingly have built a family that includes two adopted children, a son and a daughter, enriching their lives with love and joy. The decision to adopt speaks to their commitment to family and their desire to provide a loving home for children in need. Dinah has been a constant source of support for Bird's career, often seen at public events alongside him, underscoring their strong and enduring partnership. Their presence together is a visible symbol of their shared journey and unwavering commitment.

In addition to Corrie Bird, his daughter from his first marriage, Larry Bird and Dinah Mattingly share two adopted children: Matthew Bird and Marianne Bird. These children complete their family and have been raised with the same values of hard work, dedication, and humility that Bird himself embodies.

Bird's NBA career is a testament to his extraordinary skill, unwavering determination, and unparalleled competitiveness, a story etched in the annals of basketball history. His achievements are numerous, solidifying his place among the greatest players to ever grace the court. Consider this: Three NBA Championships (1981, 1984, 1986), Two NBA Finals MVP Awards (1984, 1986), Twelve NBA All-Star selections (19801988, 1990), NBA Rookie of the Year (1980), and Three NBA Most Valuable Player awards (1984, 1985, 1986). These accolades are not mere statistics; they represent a legacy of excellence, a standard of performance that continues to inspire generations of basketball players.

Even after retiring from the NBA, Larry Bird's influence continues to resonate throughout the basketball world. He remains a revered figure, having transitioned into coaching and executive roles within the league. His leadership, work ethic, and competitive spirit have left an indelible mark on countless players and fans alike. As a coach, he brought his unique perspective and understanding of the game to mentor and develop young talent. As an executive, he demonstrated keen decision-making and strategic vision, shaping the direction of the franchises he served.

In 1998, Larry Bird was rightfully inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, a moment that formalized his legendary status. His legacy transcends statistics; it encompasses a style of play, a commitment to excellence, and a profound impact on the game of basketball. Even today, aspiring athletes look to Larry Bird as an example of what can be achieved through dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in oneself. His story is a testament to the power of hard work and the enduring appeal of sportsmanship.

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