Bill Russell
Induct him into the History Hall of Fame.
First African American to Coach and Play the game
Bill Russell is arguably the greatest center in NBA history. He is probably not the best player of all time, nor is he the greatest coach of all time. But he was one of the most influential people to play the game. He was probably the first actual NBA legend to play the game. He is also famous for one record that has stood since he retired. He is the player with the most NBA championship rings of all time with eleven with thirteen years in the NBA. The only people who are within three of that are his teammates from that team.
Bill Russell (AMAZING BASKETBALL NBA DOCUMENTARY)
NBA Career of Bill Russell
His Story
Bill Russell was born on Feb. 12, 1934. He had to overcome a lot of obstacles. Most of them were when he was young. His family had been living in poverty, in a segregated neighborhood. During this part of his life he experienced a lot of racism. But he started his basketball career when he went to a high school called McClymonds High School. This is where is coach George Powles encouraged him to develop his skills. He then played for USF (University of San Francisco) where he won a college basketball title.
The Greats Bill Russell played
Jerry West
This NBA legend was the major rivalry team that the Celtics played for most of their titles. This legend is famous for one major thing in particular. He is the image on the NBA logo.
Wilt Chamberlain.
This was Bill Russell biggest Rival. Wilt Chamberlain was 7ft 1in tall, he was famous for all the match ups he had against Russel, but he was also famous for having the most points in one game.
Lew Al Sinder
This legend according to most NBA experts is the second best player of all time. He was famous for his sky-hook and his legendary record for the most points in a NBA career. Kareem Abdul Jabbar.
Changing The game for the Better
During the year of 1967 Bill Russell was hired as a coach, but he was different than any coach in NBA history. He was the first and only NBA player/coach. He coached and played the game at the same time.
The Inspiration: Statue
Inside the NBA: Russell Stories