NBA Legend Bill Russell Passes Away At 88
Jul 31, 2022, 12:59 PM | Updated: Aug 1, 2022, 9:41 am
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JULY 21: Basketball Hall of Fame member Bill Russell waves as he is introduced at a game between the Minnesota Lynx and the Las Vegas Aces at the Mandalay Bay Events Center on July 21, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Aces defeated the Lynx 79-74. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
(Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
NBA Legend Bill Russell died Sunday, according to a statement made by his family.
Russell, best known for his time with the Boston Celtics, finished his coaching career with the Sacramento Kings during the 1987-88 season. He finished with a 17-41 record.
Bill Russell won eight straight titles with the Boston Celtics and 11 total in his career. The Hall of Famer was 88.
In the statement, his family highlights his career achievements, but also noted his social activism work.
“But for all the winning, Bill’s understanding of the struggle is what illuminated his life. From boycotting a 1961 exhibition game to unmask too-long-tolerated discrimination, to leading Mississippi’s first integrated basketball camp in the combustible wake of Medgar [Evers’] assassination, to decades of activism ultimately recognized by his receipt of the Presidential Medal of Freedom … Bill called out injustice with an unforgiving candor that he intended would disrupt the status quo, and with a powerful example that, though never his humble intention, will forever inspire teamwork, selflessness and thoughtful change,” the statement read.”
An announcement… pic.twitter.com/KMJ7pG4R5Z
— TheBillRussell (@RealBillRussell) July 31, 2022
The Sacramento Kings said in a statement they join the NBA community “grieving the loss of NBA legend Bill Russell.”
“His immeasurable impact will continue to resonate both on and off the court for years to come. We are keeping his family and friends in our thoughts during this time,” the statement said.
