Bill Russell is definitely one of the most legendary players in the NBA. Russell was an elite defensive player and rebounder as well and was well-known for his ability to simply lock down the paint.
While Bill Russell obviously played in a different era, he would definitely have been able to find success in the modern game. His shot-blocking would likely have been extremely valuable for teams today, as the center averaged around 8.1 BPG during his career. This number is based on available data.
There is no doubt that Bill Russell made the Boston Celtics one of the most successful franchises of all time. Perhaps if he were drafted elsewhere, he could have changed the trajectory of that franchise as well.
Phil Jackson Holds Bill Russell In High Regard
In a previous interview with TIME magazine, legendary coach Phil Jackson was asked about which player he’d pick to start an NBA franchise. Jackson claimed that he would select Russell as his first pick in that scenario, as the center managed to win 11 championships during his career. (2:30):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=264Vx6jjIlo
Belinda Luscombe: If you were a starting a team from scratch, and you could have any player in history, who would be your very first pick?
Phil Jackson: In my estimation that has to be there is Bill Russell. He won 11 championships as a player. I think that’s the… idea of excellence is when you win championships.
It is hard to argue against Phil Jackson in this scenario. Winning 11 championships is absolutely incredible, and it is quite likely that the feat will never be repeated in the NBA. If we make the argument that “excellence” is solely winning championships, then Bill Russell is the right choice.
Obviously, it is slightly surprising that Phil Jackson didn’t choose Michael Jordan, as he coached him and helped the superstar shooting guard three-peat twice. However, even though Michael Jordan is better than Bill Russell, it is clear that Jackson valued the total number of rings in this scenario.
There is no doubt that Bill Russell’s legacy on the game will never be forgotten. His No. 6 is retired leaguewide as of right now, and it is clear that the league respects what he was able to do during his career and off the court. Though he may be underrated among younger fans, Bill Russell is clearly one of the best players of all time.
