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Larry Bird’s Calculated Trash Talk Fueled 1988 Triple-Title Win

7/24/2026

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Summary

Story summary

In 1986, Larry Bird told Xavier McDaniel when and how he would score a game-winner.
Bird reportedly studied opponents closely to find precise material for his trash-talk.
Michael Jordan avoided giving Bird material and barred teammates from speaking to him.
At the 1988 All-Star Three-Point Contest, Bird asked who was playing for second place, then claimed his third straight title.

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Story summary

In 1986, Larry Bird told Xavier McDaniel when and how he would score a game-winner.
Bird reportedly studied opponents closely to find precise material for his trash-talk.
Michael Jordan avoided giving Bird material and barred teammates from speaking to him.
At the 1988 All-Star Three-Point Contest, Bird asked who was playing for second place, then claimed his third straight title.