UNBELIEVABLE: “Now you really understand what made him such a great player” — Coach Joe Mazzulla Explained Why The Former Legendary Celtics Player Larry Bird, Who is Now Working as Senior Coaching Advisor Was the Greatest of All Time — You Know Why?

Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla recently opened up about working closely with former Celtics legend Larry Bird, who has returned to the organization in a senior coaching advisor role. In an emotional and insightful reflection, Mazzulla revealed what sets Bird apart — not just as a Hall of Fame player, but as an enduring basketball mind whose presence still shapes the game today.

“Now you really understand what made him such a great player,” Mazzulla said, speaking on Bird’s influence behind the scenes. “It’s not just his skill — it’s his mind, his discipline, his ability to see the game two steps ahead. When you sit in a room with him, you realize you’re learning from one of the best to ever do it.”

Larry Bird’s return to Boston in an advisory role has quietly but profoundly impacted the franchise’s development, according to Mazzulla. Known for his fiery competitiveness during his playing days, Bird brings that same intensity and basketball IQ to the Celtics’ coaching meetings, film sessions, and strategy discussions. “He sees things in players that most people miss. He notices the smallest habits — good and bad — and knows how to communicate adjustments in a way that just clicks,” Mazzulla explained.

Bird, who led the Celtics to three NBA championships in the 1980s and was named league MVP three times, is remembered as one of the most intelligent players to ever step on the court. But it’s his behind-the-scenes work now that is drawing admiration from the current coaching staff. “He’s not trying to steal the spotlight. He’s here because he loves the game and he loves the Celtics. His input makes us sharper,” Mazzulla said.

Players, too, have reportedly been impacted by Bird’s mentorship. “Guys perk up when he walks in. They know that’s Larry Bird — not just a legend, but someone who still has something to teach them,” Mazzulla added.

As the Celtics continue their pursuit of another championship, Bird’s legacy lives on not just in the rafters of TD Garden but in the minds of coaches and players learning from his unmatched understanding of the game.

“Working with him,” Mazzulla said, “you stop wondering why he was great. You know why.”