Dinah Mattingly is not a household name, but she is the woman behind one of the greatest basketball players of all time, Larry Bird. Dinah has been married to Larry since 1989 and has supported him through his illustrious career as a player, coach, and executive in the NBA. Dinah is a private person who prefers to stay away from the spotlight, but she has a fascinating story of her own. Here are some facts and details about Dinah Mattingly, the wife of Larry Legend.
Early Life and Education
Dinah Mattingly was born on November 16, 1954, in Naples, Florida. She grew up in Indiana and attended Indiana State University, where she met Larry Bird. Dinah and Larry were both students at the same college and shared a passion for basketball. Dinah graduated with a degree in physical education and health in 1977.
Relationship with Larry Bird
Dinah Mattingly and Larry Bird started dating in the late 1980s, after Larry divorced his first wife, Janet Condra, with whom he had a daughter, Corrie. Dinah and Larry got married on October 31, 1989, in a private ceremony in Indiana. They have been together ever since, celebrating their 34th anniversary in 2023.
Dinah and Larry have two adopted children, a son named Connor and a daughter named Mariah. Dinah is also the stepmother of Corrie, who was born in 1977. Dinah and Larry have faced some challenges in their family life, such as Connor’s arrest in 2013 for allegedly trying to hit his ex-girlfriend with his car. However, they have also shared many happy moments, such as watching their children grow up and supporting Larry’s achievements in basketball.
Role in Larry’s Career
Dinah Mattingly has been a constant source of support and inspiration for Larry Bird throughout his career. She was by his side when he played for the Boston Celtics from 1979 to 1992, winning three NBA championships, three MVP awards, and two Finals MVP awards. She was also there when he coached the Indiana Pacers from 1997 to 2000, leading them to the NBA Finals in 2000 and winning the Coach of the Year award in 1998. She continued to be his partner when he became the president of basketball operations for the Pacers from 2003 to 2012 and from 2013 to 2017, earning the Executive of the Year award in 2012.
Dinah Mattingly has always been proud of Larry’s accomplishments and has praised his work ethic, dedication, and passion for the game. She has also helped him cope with the physical and mental toll of his career, such as his back problems, his retirement, and his health issues. Dinah has been Larry’s best friend, confidant, and soulmate, and has given him the stability and love that he needed.
Personal Interests and Hobbies
Dinah Mattingly is not a fan of the limelight and prefers to live a simple and low-key life. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, and likes to travel, read, and watch movies. She is also a philanthropist who supports various charitable causes, such as the Larry Bird Foundation, which provides scholarships and grants to needy children in Indiana.
Dinah Mattingly is a devout Christian who attends church regularly and follows the teachings of Jesus Christ. She is also a vegetarian who loves to cook and eat healthy food. She is fond of animals and has a pet dog named Buddy.
Trivia Section
| Name | Dinah Mattingly |
|---|---|
| Age | 69 |
| Height | 5’7″ |
| Partner | Larry Bird (m. 1989) |
| Children | Corrie Bird (stepdaughter), Connor Bird (adopted son), Mariah Bird (adopted daughter) |
| Education | Indiana State University (B.S. in Physical Education and Health, 1977) |
| Favorite Food | Vegetable lasagna |
| Net Worth | $10 million (estimated) |
| Sex | Female |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Sibling | None |
| Favorite TV Show | The Crown |
| Pet | Buddy (dog) |
Conclusion
Dinah Mattingly is a remarkable woman who has been the wife of Larry Bird for over three decades. She has been his rock, his cheerleader, and his partner in life. She has also been a loving mother, a generous philanthropist, and a humble person. Dinah Mattingly is the wife of Larry Legend, but she is also a legend in her own right.
