#15: He Won Three Consecutive NBA MVP Awards

Between 1984 and 1986, Larry Bird accomplished a rare and remarkable feat: he won three consecutive NBA MVP awards. Only Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain had done it before him. During that stretch, Bird averaged over 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists, shooting nearly 50% from the field and 90% from the free-throw line.

He epitomized efficient, intelligent basketball—always two steps ahead. His leadership, competitiveness, and unshakeable confidence elevated everyone around him. Those mid-80s years weren’t just Bird’s best—they were among the best in NBA history. He was the league’s undisputed alpha.