Who inspired Larry bird to play basketball?

Larry Bird was inspired to play basketball by his grandfather, Charlie Joe Bird. Charlie Joe was a self-taught basketball player who played in the semi-professional "bush leagues" in Indiana. He was known as a fierce competitor and an accurate shooter. Larry often watched his grandfather play and became fascinated by the game of basketball. He would often practice shooting and dribbling in his driveway, and he would listen to stories of his grandfather's playing days. Larry's grandfather passed away when Larry was just ten years old, but his inspiration and passion for the game of basketball never wavered.