In pics: Boston Celtics legend Bill Russell’s life through the years
Bill Russell, one of the most decorated NBA players, died at age 88. He primarily played for the Boston Celtics and managed to become the centerpiece for the dynasty. In addition to winning 11 championships in 13 years, Russell also earned an Olympic gold medal.
A Louisiana native, Russell also left a lasting mark as a Black athlete in a city — and country — where race is often a flash point. He was at the March on Washington in 1963, when King gave his “I Have a Dream” speech, and he backed Ali when the boxer was pilloried for refusing induction into the military draft.
In 2011, Obama awarded Russell the Medal of Freedom alongside Congressman John Lewis, billionaire investor Warren Buffett, then-German Chancellor Angela Merkel and baseball great Stan Musial.
Related Articles
ADVERTISEMENT