Bill Russell

Bill Russell will forever be remembered as a legend. His University of San Francisco teams won back to back NCAA Titles in the mid 50’s and he was the captain of the U.S National team that won the gold at the 1956 Melbourne Games.


Upon entering the NBA, he helped begin a tradition of winning that remains unmatched in league history by capturing the NBA title 11 times in his 13 seasons with the Boston Celtics, creating the greatest dynasty in NBA history.

Despite his success, Russell was not welcomed in Boston by fans and media, a bitter reminder of the racism he had endured since childhood. As he did at every level, Russell rose above the hate and vowed never to be a victim of racial bigotry.


Russell succeeded legendary coach Red Aurbach in 1966, making him the first African American coach of any professional sports team. In 1972 Russell’s famed #6 was retired by the Celtics and three years later he was elected into the NBA Hall of Fame.