Following Bill Russell’s death on Sunday, the sports world reacted with an outpouring of messages celebrating the basketball legend’s life.
“Today we lost a giant,” former president Barack Obama, who awarded Russell the Medal of Freedom, tweeted. “As tall as Bill Russell stood, his legacy rises far higher — both as a player and as a person.
“Perhaps more than anyone else, Bill knew what it took to win and what it took to lead. On the court, he was the greatest champion in basketball history. Off of it, he was a civil rights trailblazer — marching with Dr. King and standing with Muhammad Ali.
“For decades, Bill endure insults and vandalism, but never let it stop him from speaking up for what’s right. I learned so much from the way he played, the way he coached and the way he lived his life.”
Michael Jordan touched on Russell’s trailblazing impact he left behind in the NBA.
“Bill Russell was a pioneer — as a player, as a champion, as the NBA’s first black head coach and as an activist,” Jordan said in a statement, via The Athletic. He paved the way and set an example for every black player who came into the league after him, including me. The world has lost a legend. My condolences to his family and may he rest in peace.”
Russell, an 11-time NBA champion, was a revered figure in both the NBA community and the wider world, for his civil rights advocacy.
“Bill Russell was my idol,” Magic Johnson wrote on Twitter. “I looked up to him on and off the court. His success on the court was undeniable; he was [dominant] and great, winning 11 NBA championships. Off the court, Bill Russell paved the way for guys like me.”
“Rest in peace Bill Russell,” Isiah Thomas tweeted, “you were everything we all aspired to be, your winning spirit will live forever my friend. Thank you for your words of wisdom.”
“Bill Russell’s passing is not just an NBA loss, it is a world loss,” Charles Barkley said in a statement. “When your actions match your words on important issues, you are a great man, not just a great basketball player. The word ‘hero’ is tossed around a lot, but today it is perfect. RIP GREAT MAN BR.”
Russell was undefeated in elimination games.
“Bill Russell was a legendary player and coach, and an even better person,” former President Bill Clinton tweeted. “He approached everything he did with determination, principle, and wisdom. I will always be grateful for the chance to call him my friend.”
The Celtics, who he spent his entire playing career with and became the first ever black head coach in North America for, released a statement saying, “Bill was a champion unlike any other in the history of team sports – an 11-time NBA champion, including winning eight consecutive titles, a five-time MVP, an Olympic Gold Medalist and the NBA’s first Black head coach.
“Bill Russell’s DNA is woven through every element of the Celtics organization, from the relentless pursuit of excellence, to the celebration of team rewards over individual glory, to a commitment to social justice and civil rights off the court.
“Our thoughts are with his family as we mourn his passing and celebrate his enormous legacy in basketball, Boston and beyond.”
Added Celtics owners Wyc Grousbeck and Steve Pagliuca: “Bill embodied character and commitment and he was truly one of the finest people to ever live. He will be remembered forever and deservedly so.”
