Larry Bird and Magic Johnson were fierce rivals on the basketball court, but they also had a deep and lasting friendship. Their friendship began during the filming of a Converse commercial in French Lick, Indiana when Bird's mom invited Johnson to lunch. During that meal, Johnson realized he and Bird had a lot in common, including their love for the game and their Midwest roots. Bird felt the same way, reflecting on their shared love for passing the ball and making other players better. Despite their competitive rivalry, their friendship endured throughout their careers and beyond.