Corrie Bird is the daughter of NBA legend Larry Bird and his former wife, Janet Condra. Born on August 14, 1977, Corrie’s life has been shaped by her famous father and the challenges of their relationship.
In this article, I will talk about her early life, family, career, and personal experiences in detail.
Early Life and Family Background
Corrie Bird was born in Indiana, a state with a rich basketball history and the same place where her father, Larry Bird, grew up and became a basketball star.
Larry Bird and Janet Condra were high school sweethearts who married on November 8, 1975. However, their marriage was short-lived, and they divorced in 1976, just a year before Corrie was born.
Parents’ Relationship
Larry and Janet’s relationship was strained from the start. They married young, and Larry’s burgeoning basketball career added pressure. Larry Bird, known for his intense focus and dedication to basketball with the Boston Celtics, found it challenging to balance his personal life with his professional aspirations.
After their divorce, Larry initially denied being Corrie’s father until a paternity test confirmed it. This denial created a rift between Larry and Corrie, impacting her early years.
Growing Up Without Larry Bird
Corrie grew up primarily with her mother, Janet, and her stepfather, Joe Kerns. She did not have much contact with Larry during her childhood. Despite the lack of a close relationship with her father, Corrie showed resilience and determination in her personal and professional life.
Education
Corrie attended North Clay Junior High School, where she graduated in 1991. Her time at North Clay was marked by her involvement in various school activities and her strong academic performance. She then moved on to Northview High School, graduating in 1995.
At Northview, Corrie continued to excel academically and participated in extracurricular activities, laying a strong foundation for her future endeavors. Later, she earned a Bachelor’s degree from Indiana State University in 1999.
Corrie Bird Also Love Basketball
Corrie Bird’s love for basketball is deeply rooted in her upbringing as the daughter of Larry Bird. Growing up with such a famous basketball figure naturally influenced her passion for the sport.
Despite the difficult relationship with her father, Corrie inherited a passion for basketball, which she pursued actively during her high school years. She played basketball and kept her father informed about her achievements, hoping to connect with him through their shared interest in the sport.
Corrie’s love for basketball is not just a reflection of her father’s legacy but also a testament to her personal dedication and interest in the game.
You can also see her Twitter updates about basketball now.
Reconnecting with Her Father
As Corrie grew older, she made efforts to reconnect with Larry. Although she tried to connect with her father, including keeping him updated on her high school basketball achievements, Larry Bird was largely absent from her life.
The distance was highlighted when Larry declined Corrie’s request to attend “Larry Bird Night,” a retirement celebration hosted by the Celtics, which led to significant media backlash.
A significant moment in their relationship came when Corrie invited Larry to one of her high school basketball games.
Larry attended, and this event marked the beginning of their renewed relationship. Over time, Larry became more involved in Corrie’s life, attending her wedding and graduation. Their relationship, though complicated, evolved into a more positive and supportive connection.
Over the years, Corrie has expressed her desire for a closer relationship with her father. In an interview with Oprah Winfrey when she was 17 years old, she shared her feelings about the lack of connection with Larry Bird and her efforts to maintain a bond despite the challenges.
Eventually, they began to rebuild their relationship, with Larry attending some of Corrie’s significant life events, such as her wedding and graduation.
Her Relationship With Larry Bird Today
Today, while their relationship has improved, Corrie admits that she still does not know her father very well. Nonetheless, they are on better terms.
Career
Corrie has held various notable positions in the healthcare industry. She has worked at institutions such as Clay Community Schools, Putnam County Hospital, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, and St. Vincent Clay Hospital. Her roles have earned her respect and recognition in her field.
Personal Life
Corrie Bird married Trent Theopolis Batson on May 17, 2008. Their wedding took place at the White Chapel on the Rose Hulman Institute of Technology grounds, followed by a celebration at the Rose Hulman Dining Hall. The couple shares a strong bond and supports each other through life’s challenges.
Children and Family Life
Corrie and Trent are proud parents of two children, Violet and Sebastian Grey. Family is important to Corrie, and she cherishes the time spent with her loved ones. Despite her busy career, she ensures that her family remains a priority.
Relationship with Siblings
Corrie has two half-siblings from Larry Bird’s second marriage to Dinah Mattingly. Her sister, Mariah Bird, is an event manager and dancer for the Pacers Sports & Entertainment. Her brother, Connor Bird, has faced some personal challenges but remains part of the family.
Personal Reflections
As you can see, Corrie Bird’s life story is one of resilience and determination. Growing up without a close relationship with her famous father, she carved her path in the healthcare industry and built a loving family. Her efforts to reconnect with Larry Bird show her strength and willingness to mend relationships.
Corrie faced many challenges, including the initial denial of her paternity by Larry Bird and the subsequent lack of contact. However, her determination to succeed and her efforts to rebuild her relationship with her father highlight her perseverance and strength of character.
I think Corrie’s journey is a testament to the power of forgiveness and the importance of family bonds.