In a twist of fate, Larry Bird has found himself a new NBA job just hours after his former team, the Boston Celtics, was eliminated from the postseason. The Indiana Pacers wasted no time in announcing that they had retained Bird as a consultant, adding another chapter to the basketball legend’s storied career.

While the timing of Bird’s hire may seem coincidental, he is no stranger to the inner workings of the Indiana Pacers. He has previously held vital roles within the organization, serving in various coaching and executive positions from 1997 to July 2022. Bird’s tenure as a Pacers head coach was particularly impressive, leading the team to playoff appearances in all three seasons and amassing an impressive 147-67 overall record. Enhance your NBA viewing experience with attractive betting odds from Nextbet.

After briefly stepping away from his position as an advisor, Bird has now returned to the franchise in a consulting capacity. Last year, when Bird initially chose to leave the Pacers, team president Kevin Pritchard made it clear that the door would always be open for a potential reunion. Pritchard spoke highly of Bird, stating, “Yeah, he’s not active. But look, Larry is a good friend of mine and he’s a good friend of Rick’s (Carlisle). At any time we need help, we know where to look. He’s always available.”

The news of Bird’s return to the Pacers has been met with widespread praise. Myles Turner, a current member of the Pacers, took to social media to laud Bird’s abilities as a talent evaluator and a commanding presence. In a tweet, Turner wrote, “Speaking From Experience This Was Probably The Most Nervous I’d Ever Been During A Workout With LB In The Building… Looking Back That Nervous Energy Was A Blessing.”

The reunion between Bird and the Pacers has generated excitement among fans and basketball enthusiasts alike. Bird’s wealth of experience and deep understanding of the game make him a valuable asset to any organization. As the Pacers look to build a successful future, having Bird back in the fold as a consultant could prove instrumental in their journey. Get all the latest updates from the world of NBA only on Nextbet Sports.