Introduction

When the topic of basketball legends comes up, Larry Bird certainly stands out as one of the greatest. Known for his exceptional basketball IQ and clutch shot-making, his impact on the game of basketball has been profound. However, would he have the ability to compete in today’s NBA 3-point contest? Let’s delve into the details.

Age and Physical Conditions

As of the time of this article, Larry Bird is 65 years old. While his career was marked by peak physical condition and peak performance, age can certainly take its toll. The physical demands of hitting 3-point shots repeatedly can be demanding on even the young players. Factors such as flexibility, hand-eye coordination, and muscle strength can all play a significant role in a successful performance. Would these elements decline with age? Let’s explore this further.

Historical Shooting Statistics

During his prime, Larry Bird’s performance from beyond the arc was impressive. According to official records, his 3-point shooting efficiency was around 42%. This is a decent statistic, but given the current era of high 3-point shooting accuracy, can we realistically expect a player in his 60s to maintain such a shooting percentage?

Current 3-Point Shooting Trends

The modern NBA has seen a significant increase in 3-point shooting accuracy. Players like Stephen Curry, who has an impressive career average of over 40% from beyond the arc, demonstrate that top-notch shooters in today’s NBA can hit shots at an impressive rate. This increased focus on and investment in 3-point shooting has significantly altered the game’s landscape. Can a player who is 65 years old still compete in this highly competitive realm?

Steph vs. Larry

While both Larry Bird and Stephen Curry were exceptional shooters, it’s clear that their playing styles, strategies, and the overall game dynamics have evolved. Curry’s ability to shoot from all angles and his consistency at a high level throughout his career have set a new benchmark. In a direct comparison, if ever Larry Bird were to compete in today’s NBA 3-point contest, it would likely come down to him and Curry. Curry’s age would play no role; he is still an active and competitive player in his prime, whereas Bird is already in his 60s.

Conclusion

Given Larry Bird’s physical age and the current standards of modern NBA 3-point shooting, it would be difficult for him to win a 3-point contest in today’s NBA. While his skills and competitive spirit were unparalleled, the physical attributes required for high accuracy shooting and the current high demands of the game’s performance level would likely leave him at a significant disadvantage.

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Historical Shooting Efficiency

The 3-point shooting efficiency during Larry Bird's prime years was around 42%. This solid statistic, however, may appear less impressive against today's top shooters in the NBA.

Modern NBA and 3-Point Shooting

The trend in modern basketball has seen an increase in 3-point shooting accuracy. Players like Stephen Curry have demonstrated that consistently hitting shots from beyond the arc is possible well into a player's active career.

Adversary Comparison

If we were to consider a hypothetical contest, it would come down to Larry Bird and Stephen Curry. While both are exceptional shooters, their performances and the game's dynamics have evolved over time.

Physical Demands of the Game

At 65 years old, physical attributes such as flexibility, hand-eye coordination, and muscle strength can decline, making it challenging for Larry Bird to maintain the high shooting accuracy required in today's NBA.