RIP, Bill Russell

Sad news, as NBA legend and civil rights activist Bill Russell has died at the age of 88.

Russell was best known for his legendary NBA career. He won a record 11 NBA championship rings during his storied career. That is not only the most for any NBA player in history, it is, I believe, the most of any player in the four major North American sports leagues. Even Tom Brady, with his seven Super Bowl rings and ten Super Bowl appearances, pales by way of comparison.

In addition to his astonishing athletic accomplishments, Russell was a civil rights activist as well, having participated in the famous March in Washington in 1963. He was there when Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his historic "I Have a Dream" speech. He also supported legendary heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali when he refused to serve in Vietnam, for which he went to prison.

Russell was one of the most inspirational players in NBA history, and his influence and greatness clearly transcended the basketball court.

RIP, Bill Russell. 

NBA legend and civil rights activist Bill Russell dies at 88 by Wayne Sterling, Patrick Sung and Ben Church, CNN  Updated 6:26 AM ET, Mon August 1, 2022:

https://www.cnn.com/2022/07/31/sport/bill-russell-nba-legend-dies-spt-intl/index.html