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.

FILE – Boston Celtics’ Bill Russell, left, holds a corsage sent to the dressing room as he celebrates with Celtics coach Red Auerbach. (AP)
FILE – Bill Russell grins at the announcement that he had been named coach of the Boston Celtics basketball team. (AP)
FILE – In this May 5, 1969 photo, Los Angeles Lakers’ Wilt Chamberlain tries to shoot against Boston Celtics’ Bill Russell. (AP)
Celtics player Bill Russell jumps to receive ball during an NBA game. (Twitter/ BostonCeltics)
FILE – Boston Celtics legend Bill Russell stands courtside during a tribute in his honor. (AP)
FILE – Former Boston Celtics basketball player Bill Russell addresses an audience during a campaign fundraising event. (AP)