#2: Early Life Struggles

Larry’s upbringing was profoundly shaped by hardship. His father, Joe Bird, was a Korean War veteran who struggled with financial pressures and personal demons. Tragically, when Larry was in high school, Joe took his own life—a moment that marked Larry’s life forever.

The loss forced him to mature quickly, fueling his drive to succeed. Raised by his mother, Georgia, who worked multiple jobs to keep the family afloat, Larry found a sense of consistency in basketball. The court became his refuge.