On Sunday, the basketball world was shocked and saddened when NBA legend Bill Russell died at age 88.
It came suddenly. The Boston Celtics great had seemed very active and alert despite his advanced age.
Russell helped put the NBA on the map in the late 1950s and 1960s by making defense a key and leading the Celtics to 11 championships in his 13 seasons.
He was an intimidating shot-blocker and voracious rebounder — the centerpiece of Boston’s dynasty.
The majority of Russell’s titles were won against the Lakers, but that didn’t prevent team owner Jeanie Buss from paying tribute.
Bill Russell was a treasure as a player, coach and especially as a human being. @Lakers and @celtics fans can agree on this today. 😔💜💚😔 https://t.co/TTDfp9w8Zq
— Jeanie Buss (@JeanieBuss) July 31, 2022
Needless to say, Russell’s passing is a gigantic loss for the sports world, as even Lakers fans have come to love and appreciate him over the years.
