Bird Reinvigorated by Fast Start

1990-91 Boston Celtics
Remembering the 29-5 Start

Coach Chris Ford said that Larry Bird's improved physical condition and the emergence of younger players such as Dee Brown, Reggie Lewis, Brian Shaw and Kevin Gamble who have brought "some life and enthusiasm" to the team have added up to an
enjoyable season for No. 33 thus far.

"I think Larry's feeling good about himself and the team," said Ford, "even though his back isn't 100 percent." Shaw engaged in an unusual game of H-O-R-S-E at the end of yesterday's practice with Dave Popson, Michael Smith and Ed Pinckney. The quartet was taking the weirdest shots they could think of. Shaw topped the repertoire when he tried to bounce one through the hoop off the 24-second clock that hung above the backboard -- which prompted assistant coach Don Casey to quip, "If you break it, Brian, it's coming out of your paycheck."