NBA Legend Bill Russell, an 11 time NBA champion with the Boston Celtics, and the first Black head coach of the league, died peacefully Sunday, according to a family statement. He was 88.
The statement states, "It is with an extremely heavy heart that we would like to share with all of Bill’s friends, fans and followers."
"Bill Russell was the most prolific American sports winner, and he passed away today peacefully at the age of 88 with Jeannine by his side.
"Bill's high school state championships gave a glimpse of the unrivalled run of team success to come. Bill was twice a NCAA champion,
captain of an Olympic gold-medal winning team in the USA; eleven times a NBA champion; and was the first African-American head coach for a professional North American sports team.
Bill won a number of individual awards along the way that are rare and unmentioned.
The award for the NBA Finals' most valuable player was renamed the "Bill Russell NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award" in 2009.
Jeannine, Bill's wife and many of his friends and relatives thank you for your prayers.
You might recall some of his best moments or remember his infectious laugh when he explained the true story behind those moments.
Russell was a champion with the Boston Celtics and won eight consecutive championships from 1959 to 1966. He was a five-time NBA MVP, and a twelve-time All-Star.
“Rest in Peace Bill Russell. You were everything we all aspired too. Your winning spirit will always live with me my friend. We are grateful for your wisdom.