The names of Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James are always mentioned when we talk about the greatest basketball players in the history of the NBA. The three superstars’ impact on the game is simply not something many can match.
But if it weren’t for the Boston Celtics legend Bill Russell, maybe fans would have never gotten a chance to see them in action. Russell was active in the league back in the 1950s and the 1960s.
At the time, there was not much exposure for basketball players, let alone black basketball players. Keeping that sentiment in mind, former NBA player B.J. Armstrong wrote a column on Sky Sports where he talked about the importance of Bill Russell to the NBA.
Via Sky Sports:
“When I begin to think about what Bill Russell and all of those players from that time had to endure, my respect for that era – especially given what they had to go through – is beyond reproach.”
He also wrote, “That is what Black History Month is all about, and why it’s important we celebrate it. In basketball, there is no Michael Jordan or LeBron James or Kobe Bryant without Bill Russell.”
Russell is regarded as the greatest winner in the history of the league. The NBA Hall of Famer has 11 NBA Championships to his name alongside 5 regular-season MVP awards. Apart from that, he has an iconic resume that is simply too amazing.
Bill’s influence exceeded the court of basketball and he also became a civil rights advocate during his career. Keeping Russell’s achievements in mind, it is no doubt that people consider him an icon and someone who should always be talked about during Black History Month.
Even after retiring from the league, fans have seen Russell make appearances during NBA events from time to time. It is always great to see the legends of the game to stay connected with fans and the game they love, as Russell has done over the years.
