He was found tethered and abandoned on a basketball court, so naturally, this pit bull has been given the name "Larry Bird."

But, as Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center pointed out, he hates playing fetch.

"He has no jump shot," joked Pet Resource Center spokeswoman Marti Ryan.

Larry was so scared of people, he hid under his cot at Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center. But an online image of Larry under that cot went viral and now the dog has scored a new home.

The story was picked up by media outlets as far away as Germany.

Larry was skittish because he appeared to have been abused.

Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center posted a picture with Larry's new owner, Daniel, with the caption: "Larry Bird goes home! From being abandoned at a basketball court to going to a great home....a very happy tail!"

Larry's new owner is posed with the pup next to the cot he used to hide under, only this time, Larry has a big smile on his face.

Another picture shows a shelter employee hugging Daniel.



Ryan said dogs hiding like Larry did is very common in the shelter, because they are scared and confused.