New England has witnessed numerous remarkable athletes representing the Boston Bruins, Celtics, Red Sox, and New England Patriots. In a recent episode of NESN’s “Boston Has Entered The Chat,” hosts Travis Thomas and George Balekji discussed their top three athletes from the 1980s.
Although Thomas and Balekji had differing opinions on some selections, they unanimously agreed on Celtics legend Larry Bird as the preeminent athlete of that era in New England.
“Every list starts with this man and no one else — Larry Bird,” Balekji asserted. “Three straight MVPs. Three titles won in the ’80s. Was first-team All-NBA every year in the ’80s. I don’t think he finished outside of the top three in MVP voting and he’s a top seven player all time. His peak of his powers was in the ’80s. Larry Bird, automatic bucket.”
Larry Bird’s dominance in the 1980s is unparalleled. Bird secured three consecutive MVP awards and led the Celtics to three NBA championships during the decade. His consistent performance earned him first-team All-NBA honors every year throughout the 1980s, and he consistently ranked among the top three in MVP voting. Many consider Bird one of the top seven basketball players of all time, with his prime years firmly rooted in the 1980s.
To learn more about the athletes included in Thomas and Balekji’s lists and to find out which four athletes they placed on their Mount Rushmore, you can watch the complete clip above or tune into the full episode on YouTube and Spotify.
Who would make your list of top New England athletes from the 1980s? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
