Larry Bird is one of the greatest basketball players of all time. He won championships, broke records, and became a true legend in the sport. But behind his success is someone who has been by his side for over 30 years—his wife, Dinah Mattingly.
Dinah Mattingly is not a celebrity, and she never tried to be. Even though she is married to a famous basketball player, she has always stayed away from the spotlight. Instead of seeking attention, she focused on supporting her husband, raising their family, and living a quiet life.
So who is Dinah Mattingly? How did she meet Larry Bird? What is her life like away from basketball and fame? Keep reading to find out! In this article, we’ll discuss everything about her early life, marriage, family, and everything you need to know. Let’s get started!
Quick Facts About Dinah Mattingly
📌 Full Name: Dinah Mattingly
🎂 Birthdate: November 16, 1954
📍 Birthplace: Vigo County, Indiana, USA
👩🎓 Education: Indiana State University
❤️ Famous For: Being the wife of NBA legend Larry Bird
💍 Married To: Larry Bird (since 1989)
👧👦 Children: Adopted two kids – Mariah Bird and Connor Bird
👩👧 Stepmother To: Corrie Bird, Larry’s daughter from his first marriage
🏡 Current Residence: Lives a quiet life in Indiana with Larry Bird
💰 Net Worth: Around $1 million
Who Is Dinah Mattingly?
Dinah Mattingly is best known as the wife of basketball legend Larry Bird, but she is much more than just the spouse of an NBA star. She has been by his side for years, offering love, support, and stability, all while staying out of the spotlight.
Dinah was born in Vigo County, Indiana on November 16, 1954. She grew up in a simple, hardworking family and lived a quiet life before meeting Larry Bird. She attended Indiana State University, where she first met Larry Bird. Over time, their friendship grew into something special, and years later, they got married in 1989.
Unlike many wives of famous athletes, Dinah has never aimed for fame. She prefers to live a private and peaceful life, away from the media. She has always focused on her family, supporting Larry, and raising their children. Even though she stays out of the spotlight, her role in Larry Bird’s life has been incredibly important, both personally and professionally.
Dinah Mattingly’s Early Life and Education
Dinah Mattingly grew up in Vigo County, Indiana, in a simple and hardworking family. From a young age, she learned the importance of family, hard work, and kindness. She was always active and loved sports and fitness, which later became a big part of her life.
She attended Terre Haute High School, where she did well in academics and sports. Her love for sports and fitness led her to Indiana State University, where she studied physical education.
This decision changed Dinah Mattingly’s life in many ways. At university, she not only learned about health and fitness but also met Larry Bird, who later became her husband. Because she understood sports and training, she knew the challenges Larry faced as a basketball player. This made her a strong and supportive partner throughout his career and life.
How Dinah Mattingly Met Larry Bird
As we discussed, Dinah met Larry Bird at Indiana State University in the late 1970s. At that time, Bird was already becoming a great basketball player, and his career was about to skyrocket.
At first, they were just friends, but over time, their bond grew stronger, just like Kaynette and Blake Shelton. Larry had just gone through a difficult first marriage with Janet Condra, and Dinah became someone he could trust and rely on. She brought comfort and stability into his life.
Even as Bird’s NBA career became busier in the 1980s, their relationship remained strong. Dinah stood by him through his ups and downs, showing that she was more than just a girlfriend—she was a true lifelong supporter.
Dinah Mattingly and Larry Bird’s Simple Wedding
Dinah Mattingly and Larry Bird wanted a simple and private wedding, not a big celebrity event. They didn’t like being in the spotlight and preferred to keep their personal lives out of media.
On October 31, 1989, they got married in a small and private ceremony in Indiana. Only a few close friends were there to celebrate with them. One of the most surprising things? They wore jeans instead of fancy wedding clothes!
Their wedding showed who they really are—simple, down-to-earth, and focused on what truly matters. Instead of chasing fame and luxury, they chose a peaceful and happy life together.
Do Dinah and Larry Have Children Together?
Dinah Mattingly and Larry Bird do not have biological children, but they adopted two—Mariah and Connor Bird. They wanted to build a loving family and give their children a good life.
Mariah Bird was adopted in 1991. She has become a successful event manager and now works for the Indiana Pacers, the same basketball team where Larry Bird worked as a coach and executive.
Connor Bird was adopted in 1992. He faced some difficulties in life, and in 2013, he got into legal trouble. He was arrested for assault but did not receive a serious punishment in the end.
Dinah is also the stepmother to Corrie Bird, Larry’s biological daughter from his first marriage to Janet Condra. At first, Larry and Corrie’s relationship was distant, but over time, Dinah helped bring them closer together, showing how much she cares about family.
Dinah Mattingly’s Life as Larry Bird’s Wife
Being married to a basketball star is not always easy, but Dinah Mattingly has been by Larry Bird’s side through everything. She has supported him through every stage of his career, from being a player to becoming a coach and later an NBA executive.
She was there when Bird had injuries and had to make tough choices about retirement. While many basketball wives enjoy the spotlight, Dinah preferred to stay away from the media. Instead, she focused on taking care of their home and family while Bird focused on his career.
Even though she stayed quietly in the background, her support was strong and important. She made sure Bird had everything he needed to succeed on the basketball and in his personal life.
Something About Larry Bird’s Career
Larry Bird had an amazing basketball career, and Dinah was always there to support him. To understand how important she was in his life, let’s look at his basketball journey.
Bird played for the Boston Celtics from 1979 to 1992. During this time, he became one of the best players in NBA history. He helped his team win three NBA championships in 1981, 1984, and 1986.
He also won the NBA MVP award three times in a row (1984-1986), which is a rare and amazing achievement. After retiring in 1992, he didn’t leave basketball. Instead, he became head coach of the Indiana Pacers and later worked as an NBA executive.
Bird is the only person in NBA history to win MVP, Coach of the Year, and Executive of the Year. Through all these years of hard work and success, Dinah was by his side, supporting him!
Dinah and Larry’s Charity Work
Dinah and Larry Bird like to keep their personal lives private, but they have helped many people through charity work. They have given a lot of money and support to programs that need help.
They support the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, which helps kids who don’t have many opportunities by giving them a safe place to play, learn, and grow. They have also donated to health programs, including cancer research.
Even though they don’t talk much about their charity work, Bird once said:
“I don’t do it for publicity, but because I care.”
Where Do Dinah and Larry Live?
Dinah and Larry could live anywhere, but they prefer a peaceful life in Indiana. They want to stay away from the spotlight and live in a place that feels like home.
They also own a beautiful home in Naples, Florida, which has a private movie theater, an infinity pool, and a boat dock where they can relax and enjoy their time. Even though they have wealth and success, they choose to live simply and stay out of the public eye.
Dinah Mattingly’s Net Worth
According to details, Dinah Mattingly’s net worth is around $1 million. Her husband, Larry Bird, has a much higher wealth of about $80 million, which he earned from his basketball career.
Final Thoughts
We can say Dinah Mattingly has been a strong and supportive part of Larry Bird’s life. She stood by him through his basketball career, helped raise their children, and kept their family close.
Even though she is married to a famous player, she chooses to stay private. She has also helped many people through charity without seeking attention. We hope you enjoyed learning about her inspiring story!
(FAQs)
Who is Larry Bird’s ex-wife?
Larry Bird was previously married to Janet Condra. They were childhood sweethearts and got married in 1975, but their marriage ended shortly after.
Who is Larry Bird’s current wife?
Larry Bird’s current wife is Dinah Mattingly. They got married in 1989 and have been together for over three decades.
How old is Dinah Mattingly?
Dinah Mattingly was born on November 16, 1954. So, as of now she is 70 years old.
Do Larry and Dinah have children together?
Larry Bird and Dinah Mattingly do not have biological children, but they adopted two kids—Mariah and Connor Bird.
Why is Dinah Mattingly famous?
Dinah Mattingly is best known as the wife of NBA legend Larry Bird.
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