The New England region and Boston sports fans worldwide were informed of tragic news on Sunday as Boston Celtics legend and NBA Hall of Famer Bill Russell passed away. He was 88 years old.
Russell was a cornerstone player and coach for the Celtics organization during its dynastic run in the 1960s, helping the team win an unprecedented 11 NBA titles in his 13 seasons, eight of them coming in a row.
In a statement shared by Russell’s wife over his social media accounts, she stated he died “peacefully” with her by his side. Russell was recently battling an undisclosed illness, as he was not present for the NBA Finals between his Celtics and Golden State Warriors in June.
The New England Patriots paid tribute to Russell with a photo of himself alongside David Ortiz, Bobby Orr, and Ty Law at a special ceremony before Red Sox opening day at Fenway Park in 2016.
A legend and a champion whose impact extends far beyond Boston sports.
Our thoughts are with Bill Russell’s loved ones and the entire @celtics family. pic.twitter.com/WeywK9diPW
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) July 31, 2022
That same year, head coach Bill Belichick shared some of the lessons he learned from Russell during the times they would cross paths.
Big or small, Bill Russell left a mark on all those he crossed paths with.
From 2016: Just one of many lessons Bill Belichick took away from the legendary leader. pic.twitter.com/oxJYmFmjXg
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) July 31, 2022
https://twitter.com/NVBentley33/status/1553796687826767872?s=20&t=UyKYEd_Qz7YgrupoLiijJQ
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