For a rookie, going up against NBA icon Larry Bird must have been a nerve-wracking experience.
And the basketball Great didn't help matters with his confrontational attitude.
Today, Dominique Wilkins is remembered as a nine-timer All-Star who won two Slam Dunk Contests.
But in 1982, he was a fresh-faced youngster looking to make a name for himself after being selected third overall.
Atlanta Hawks Small forward Wilkins traveled to Boston to face Bird's Celtics in October this year.
The rising star decided to acknowledge his rival before the game and an unforgettable encounter ensued.
“I remember the first time I played against Bird. “I’ll never forget that,” he said said The Players' Tribune.
“I'll shake his hand, I'm a freshman and I'm playing against him In the Boston Garden, Larry clasped both hands behind his back. Wouldn't shake my hand.
“I said, 'Okay, we're just getting into the game.' On the first play of the game he said: “You don’t even belong in the league houses” and shot a three-pointer.
“I wasn’t even mad that he did the three. But I said, 'Did that motherfucker just call me home?'
“He came back and did it again, so I’m screwed, so next time I jump up and throw it at the man and he defiles me.”
“He said, 'Rook, I like you, you've got heart, but I still get 30 on your ass.'
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The Celtics ended up winning 112-97, with Bird failing to keep his promise.
He scored 21 points — one less than Wilkins — but added 14 rebounds.
Wilkins left a lasting legacy in the NBA and enjoyed a 17-year career.
And his impact could last for a while now that his son has committed to it Georgia.
The future Bulldog is recommended to enter his father's alma matter as a five-star recruit.
“I just feel at home,” Jacob said, announcing his decision on YouTube.
“I trust everyone there. I arrive there with a last name, but I know that I will make my own name there.”
“Not just Dominique Wilkins’ son, but also Jacob Wilkins.”
Dominique, known as the Human Highlight Reel, averaged 21.6 points for Georgia from 1979 to 1982.
He was named SEC Player of the Year in 1981 and his son adopted the nickname Baby Highlight to carry on the family legacy.
