Bill Russell, a member of the Pro Basketball Hall of Fame. Boston Celtics American sports' icon and legend has died at the age of 88. His death was announced on social media.
He is considered the ultimate winner. In a thirteen-year span, he won 11 NBA titles, eight consecutively from 1959 to 1966. He holds the NBA Finals records in championships, appearances and game played. He also won two NCAA championships at the University of San Francisco, and a gold in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. Henri Richard who also played for the University of San Francisco, has tied Russell's 11 professional championships. Montreal CanadiensFor the most records in NBA, MLB NFL, NFL, and NHL history,.
Russell was also an important civil rights leader. He led a protest by players in 1961 when the Celtics refused to serve them at a Lexington, Kentucky restaurant. He was joined by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Jim Brown, the Cleveland Browns' running back. Kareem Abdul-JabbarRussell stood alongside Muhammad Ali, a boxer who refused to be drafted into the Vietnam War. 2017: Russell publicly supported Athletes protesting during the national song
His family said that Bill called out injustices with unforgiving candor. He intended to disrupt the status quo and that his powerful example would inspire teamwork, selflessness, and thoughtful change. statement read Sunday
To honor Russell, the sports world came together:
Celtics, past and present
Celtics guard: “Because it is okay to act as an activist and an athelete because of you.” Jaylen Brown In 2020 tribute video Russell
Thank you so much! R.I.P Legend ?? pic.twitter.com/tn2iGsArav
— Jayson Tatum (@jaytatum0) July 31, 2022
Rest in Peace Bill Russell, you were everything that we all hoped to be. Your winning spirit will always live on my friend. We are grateful for your wisdom. pic.twitter.com/rBjFS6nhzW
— Isiah Thomas (@IsiahThomas) July 31, 2022
Rest In Peace ?thank you for paving the way and inspiring so many Today is a sad day but also great day to celebrate his legacy and what he stood for ? pic.twitter.com/kvDaIsjpGG
— Jaylen Brown (@FCHWPO) July 31, 2022
pic.twitter.com/tlKQeFJP4f
— Jaylen Brown (@FCHWPO) July 31, 2022
Thank you for being a pioneer, a trailblazer. I could go on forever about all the things you meant to my life. Today is a difficult day for the NBA family. You will be missed #6 forever.
— Paul Pierce (@paulpierce34) July 31, 2022
You can also find the following Boston attractions: Red Sox They were honored during Sunday's game.
Fenway Park pays tribute to Bill Russell by offering a moment silence. pic.twitter.com/QtlvdIt70m
— WEEI Red Sox Network (@SoxBooth) July 31, 2022
Around the NBA
Russell was loved by NBA players, and his championship legacy is unparalleled. Russell is the NBA Finals MVP Award.
Jerry West, a former Lakers guard and NBA executive said, “If I had to choose between any basketball player within the league,” said After losing to the Celtics in 1968's Finals, Bill Russell was “my number one choice.” Bill Russell continues to amaze me.
Bill Russell was a great player, coach, and most importantly, a wonderful human being. @Lakers @celtics Fans can agree on this today. ???? https://t.co/TTDfp9w8Zq
— Jeanie Buss (@JeanieBuss) July 31, 2022
Legends will last forever
Bill Russell, RIP. Truly a giant of the game. pic.twitter.com/EKpLABwzmT
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) July 31, 2022
This Sunday is one of the most difficult in my life. We have lost a legend human being. @RealBillRussell His commitment to civil-rights, the human-rights movement and basketball is legendary. His smile will be missed. pic.twitter.com/fmZSmFVkqp
— Robert Horry (@RKHorry) July 31, 2022
Bill Russell, a legend of basketball, has passed away. His contributions to basketball and society will never be forgotten. He overcame all adversities with dignity, grace, and came out a champion. My sympathies to his family, and to all those who were fortunate enough to be able to call him a friend.
— Patrick Ewing (@CoachEwing33) July 31, 2022
Bill Russell was my idol. He was my idol on and off the court. His success on the court was evident. He was dominant and great, winning 11 NBA titles. Bill Russell was a role model for me off the court. pic.twitter.com/ZMIrEx8Tne
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) July 31, 2022
Rest In Peace Legend! ???❤️ https://t.co/VhjGoIM8Ff
— Trae Young (@TheTraeYoung) July 31, 2022
Aside from sports
Former President Barack Obama presented Russell with the Medal of Freedom in 2011, which is the nation's highest civilian award. He continued to support protesters. He retired in 2020. supported NBA players Protesters against police shootings of George Floyd, Jacob Blake.
He was a trailblazer, who transcended the sport of sports to impact our national and global landscapes.
You are a champion in so many ways.
Sir, I am grateful and may you rest in your power. #BillRussell. pic.twitter.com/KTG9BIJwWW
— Be A King (@BerniceKing) July 31, 2022
Bill Russell was an activist athlete that made everyone around him better. He had a career of firsts & led the way for many. I admired him my entire life & he had a huge influence on my career. He was the ultimate leader, ultimate team player & ultimate champion. pic.twitter.com/tM6C69GePz
— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) July 31, 2022
Legend. pic.twitter.com/5M45lJnSPU
— Pete Souza (@PeteSouza) July 31, 2022
It's so tragic to hear about the passing of one our all-time greats… Sending love and condolences the Russell family??? https://t.co/svL2dlXT8v
— Robin Roberts (@RobinRoberts) July 31, 2022
Bill Russell was one the most kind and thoughtful people I have ever met. One time, he called me out of the blue to tell me that he thought I looked sad in TV…best pep talk of all my life. RIP
— Jon Stewart (@jonstewart) July 31, 2022
