NBA Legend Bill Russell dies at 88
It was all tears and sadness when the news reach the public that the Celtic icon and Hall of Famer, Bill Russell has passed away. His family announced via a post on social media. However, the legend died peacefully with his wife by his side although they didn’t disclose the cause of his death.
The family statement said. “Bill’s wife, Jeannine, and his many friends and family thank you for keeping Bill in your prayers. Perhaps you’ll relive one or two of the golden moments he gave us, or recall his trademark laugh as he’s always delighted in explaining the real story behind how those moments unfolded.”
“And we hope each of us can find a new way to act or speak up with Bill’s uncompromising, dignified and always constructive commitment to principle. That would be one last, and lasting, win for our beloved.”
William Felton Russell commonly referred to as Bill Russel was born on Feb. 12, 1934, in Monroe, Louisiana. He was only a child when his family moved to the West Coast. The went to high school in Oakland, California and also he attended University of San Francisco. He also led the Dons to NCAA championships in 1955 and 1956. He also won a gold medal in 1956 at the Melbourne Olympics in Australia.
Bill’s career was amazing and was known to anchor one of the biggest dynasty in NBA history. His reign saw him win 11 championships in 13 years and also won five Most Valuable Player (MVP).
He was inducted into the Hall of Fame and also a 12-time NBA All-Star team. In addition, Bill is the first Black Head coach in any major U.S sport and was voted as the best player in NBA history in 1980.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. “Russell was the greatest champion in all of team sports.” “Bill stood for something much bigger than sports. The values of equality, respect and inclusion that he stamped into the DNA of our league. At the height of his athletic career, Bill advocated vigorously for civil rights and social justice. A legacy he passed down to generations of NBA players who followed in his footsteps,” Silver said.
“Through the taunts, threats and unthinkable adversity, Bill rose above it all and remained true to his belief that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity.” “We send our deepest condolences to his wife, Jeannine, his family and his many friends.”
Aside from his court dominance Bill was an advocate for equal rights. At the peak of his career, he marched for civil rights with Martin Luther King Jr. and was particularly after Blacks interest.
In 2011,President Barrack Obama awarded Bill Russell the Medal of Freedom alongside billionaire investor Warren Buffet and other important personalities by.
“Bill Russell, the man, is someone who stood up for the rights and dignity of all men.” Obama said at the ceremony. “He marched with King. He stood by Ali. When a restaurant refused to serve the Black Celtics, he refused to play in the scheduled game. He endured insults and vandalism. But he kept on focusing on making the teammates who he loved better players and made possible the success of so many who would follow.”
Since the news of his death, many NBA stars and celebrities have shared their condolences and impacts of Russell’s legacy on them and the society. To mention a few.
NBA legend, Michael Jordan described him as “a pioneer, a player, a champion, the NBA’s first Black head coach and an activist.”
“He paved the way and set an example for every Black player who came into the league after him, including me. The world has lost a legend. My condolences to his family and may he rest in peace.”
MVP Stephen Curry said. “Trailblazer. Icon. Greatest champ in basketball. Made the world on and off the court a better place. Thank you and rest easy! 11.”
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar posted via his twitter. “My thoughts about Bill Russell passing away. I am working on a deeper thought provoking article tonight as I process what just happened.”
Shaqeaul O’Neil said “Thank you for paving the way. We will you Legend .”
Magic Johnson said “Bill Russell was my idol. I looked up to him on and off the court. His success on the court was undeniable. He was dominate and great winning 11 NBA championships. Off the court he paved way for guys like me. He was one of the first athletes on the front line fighting for social justice, equity, equality, and civil rights. That’s why I admired and loved him so much. During our friendship, he always reminded me about making things better in the Black community.”
Russell wore the No. 6 Jersey during his time with the Celtics. The Celtics later retired it in 1972. Also he is part of the 25th, 35th and the 75th NBA anniversary team.
In 2009, the NBA named in his honor the MVP trophy of the NBA Finals. Although Russell never won it himself.
A statue of Russell was unveiled on Boston’s City Hall Plaza in 2013 with quotes on leadership and character. Even when he received his Hall of fame ring, he tweeted. “I felt others before me should have had the honor. Good to see progress.”
Bill’s impacts and legacy on the NBA and the society as a whole will never be forgotten. He was a man of honor and respect. We send our condolences to his lovely wife and family. May his gentle and kind soul rest in peace.
