#38: Bird Was a Garbage Man Before the Big Time

Before the Celtics and championships, Larry Bird worked as a garbage collector for the city of French Lick. After dropping out of Indiana University, he took a job to support himself and stay grounded. He liked the routine and the solitude—just Larry, the morning air, and the route.

The job reflected his mindset: do what needs doing, no fuss. There was dignity in it. Bird later said it was one of the best jobs he ever had. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was real work—exactly the kind that would define his career long after he left the trash route behind.