We have heartbreaking news from the world of sports to report.
NBA legend, Bill Russell, has sadly died at the age of 88.
Keep scrolling to learn more.
NBA legend and trailblazer, Bill Russell, has died.
Russell, who won a record 11 NBA titles with the Celtics, has died at the age of 88, according to his family.
Russell is also recognized as a superstar in the 1950s and 60s, becoming the first black head coach of any North American pro team.
This was when the Celtics hired him back in 1966 as their player-coach.
His death was announced by his family in a post reading:
“Bill Russell, the most prolific winner in American sports history, passed away peacefully today at age 88, with his wife, Jeannine, by his side.”
Although his family added that what he did for civil rights was just as important as his impact on sport in general.
They added:
“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 Honor in 2010, Bill called out justice 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 hopeful change.”
They concluded:
“Perhaps you’ll live one or two of the golden moments he gave us, or recall his trademark laugh as he 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 #6.”
Rest in peace Bill Russell.
A true giant in and out of the game.
Rest in peace.