Bill Russell, an iconic American basketball player, was a dominant center for the Boston Celtics from 1956 to 1969. His exceptional skills and leadership were instrumental in the Celtics' unparalleled success, securing an incredible 11 NBA championships during his tenure. Russell's remarkable legacy as a player and his impact on the sport have cemented his place among the all-time basketball greats.
February 12, 1934: Birth of Bill Russell
On February 12, 1934, Bill Russell was born.
1945: NCAA Prohibits Goaltending in Response to George Mikan
In 1945, the NCAA prohibited goaltending in response to George Mikan's dominant play.
1946: Celtics' Historic Season
The Celtics achieved their second-best record since their inception in the 1946-47 BAA season during the 1956-57 season.
1952: USF Joins the West Coast Conference
In 1952, the University of San Francisco, where Bill Russell would later make history, became a member of the newly formed West Coast Conference.
1952: Graduation from McClymonds High School and Start at USF
Bill Russell graduated from McClymonds High School and started college at the University of San Francisco in 1952.
December 1, 1953: Varsity Debut with USF
Bill Russell made his varsity debut with the University of San Francisco Dons on December 1, 1953.
1954: First Major College Basketball Team to Start Three African-American Players
Bill Russell's coach at USF, Phil Woolpert, made history in 1954 by becoming the first coach of a major college basketball team to start three African-American players: K.C. Jones, Hal Perry, and Bill Russell.
1954: Racist Discrimination during All-College Tournament
During the 1954 All-College Tournament, Bill Russell and his Black teammates were denied accommodation by hotels in Oklahoma City, leading to the entire team camping out in a closed college dorm in protest.
1955: First NCAA Championship with the San Francisco Dons
Bill Russell led the San Francisco Dons to their first NCAA championship in 1955.
1955: NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player Award
Bill Russell was named the NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player in 1955.
1955: Celtics' Worst Record Since 1955-56 Season
The Celtics struggled during the 1968-69 season, finishing with a 48-34 record, their worst since the 1955-56 season. Despite facing internal and external challenges, Russell managed to contribute 9.9 points and 19.3 rebounds per game.
December 22, 1956: Russell's NBA Debut
Bill Russell made his NBA debut for the Boston Celtics on December 22, 1956, against the St. Louis Hawks. Tasked with guarding Bob Pettit, Russell showcased his defensive prowess and shot-blocking abilities, impressing the crowd and signaling the start of a new era for the Celtics.
1956: Marriage to Rose Swisher
Bill Russell married his college sweetheart, Rose Swisher, in 1956, beginning a significant chapter in his personal life.
1956: The Trade That Shaped a Dynasty
The 1956 NBA draft saw one of the most significant trades in sports history. The St. Louis Hawks drafted Bill Russell but traded him to the Boston Celtics for Ed Macauley and Cliff Hagan. This pivotal move laid the foundation for the Celtics dynasty.
1956: Russell's Rookie Season
In his rookie season (1956-57), Bill Russell showcased his dominance by leading the league in rebounds and playing a crucial role in the Celtics' playoff run.
1956: NCAA Championship and Olympic Gold
In 1956, Bill Russell achieved two major milestones: winning the NCAA championship with the University of San Francisco and an Olympic gold medal with the U.S. basketball team.
1956: U.S. Olympic Team Participation
Bill Russell was part of the U.S. Olympic team in 1956.
1956: Bill Russell's Rookie Contract
Bill Russell signed his rookie contract in 1956, a deal worth $24,000. It was a significant sum for the time, only slightly less than teammate Bob Cousy, the highest earner.
1956: Second NCAA Championship and Olympic Gold Medal
Bill Russell led the San Francisco Dons to their second consecutive NCAA championship and captained the U.S. national basketball team to a gold medal at the 1956 Summer Olympics.
1956: Russell Rejects Harlem Globetrotters Offer
Bill Russell declined an invitation to join the Harlem Globetrotters in 1956. He was deeply offended by owner Abe Saperstein's refusal to speak directly to him, highlighting Russell's strong stance against racial prejudice. This decision led him to declare for the 1956 NBA draft.
1956: Completion of USF Varsity Career
Bill Russell concluded his varsity career with USF in 1956.
1956: Russell's Olympic Journey
Bill Russell captained the US men's Olympic basketball team to a gold medal at the 1956 Summer Olympics in Melbourne, Australia. Despite facing challenges regarding his amateur status due to his professional contract, Russell persevered and made history.
1956: Start of NBA Career with the Boston Celtics
Bill Russell began his NBA career with the Boston Celtics in 1956.
1956: Pioneering the Alley-Oop Play
Bill Russell and K.C. Jones helped pioneer the alley-oop play while at USF in 1956.
1956: Russell's Track and Field Achievements
Before joining the NBA, Bill Russell excelled in track and field, particularly in the high jump. In 1956, he was ranked seventh-best in the world and secured titles at various prestigious meets. Notably, he tied with future Olympic gold medalist Charlie Dumas at the West Coast Relays.
January 1, 1957: Controversy Surrounds Russell's Defensive Style
Following a game on January 1, 1957, Philadelphia Warriors coach Eddie Gottlieb questioned Bill Russell's defensive tactics, accusing him of playing a one-man zone and goaltending. This incident sparked debate and highlighted Russell's impact on the game.
November 16, 1957: Record-Breaking Rebounds
On November 16, 1957, Bill Russell showcased his extraordinary rebounding skills by grabbing a record-breaking 32 rebounds in a single half against the Philadelphia Warriors. This game cemented his legacy as one of the greatest rebounders in NBA history.
1957: Celtics' First Championship
The Boston Celtics, led by Bill Russell, won their first NBA championship in 1957 after an intense seven-game series against the St. Louis Hawks. Russell's defensive prowess, including the memorable "Coleman Play" in Game 7, proved crucial in securing the historic victory.
1957: Start of the 1957–58 NBA Season
The Celtics started the 1957-58 NBA season with a 14-game winning streak. Russell had an impressive season, averaging 16.6 points and a league-record 22.7 rebounds per game, leading to his recognition as the NBA Most Valuable Player.
1957: NBA Championship and Breaking Barriers
In 1957, Bill Russell's career reached new heights as he won his first NBA championship with the Boston Celtics, making him one of only five players to win both an NCAA and NBA championship in consecutive years. This year was also significant as he became the first black head coach in the NBA.
1957: First NBA Championship with the Celtics
Bill Russell helped the Celtics win their first NBA championship in 1957.
1958: Russell Acknowledges First Real Loss
Although the Celtics had lost the 1958 NBA Finals, Russell had been injured during that series. He considered the 1967 loss to the 76ers as the first real loss of his career. He showed his sportsmanship by congratulating Chamberlain in the locker room, acknowledging the 76ers' victory.
1958: NBA All-Stars Tour and Segregation
During a 1958 NBA All-Stars tour, Bill Russell and his Black teammates were subjected to racial discrimination and denied accommodation by white hotel owners in North Carolina.
1958: First All-Star Selection
In 1958, Bill Russell received his first NBA All-Star selection, marking the beginning of a streak of 12 consecutive All-Star appearances.
1958: Start of the 1958-59 NBA Season
Russell continued his dominance in the 1958-59 NBA season, averaging 16.7 points and 23 rebounds per game.
1958: Celtics' First Finals Appearance and Russell's Injury
The Celtics, in their first NBA playoffs appearance, faced the St. Louis Hawks in the 1958 NBA Finals. Despite splitting the first two games, Russell's foot injury in Game 3 significantly impacted the series. Although he returned for Game 6, the Celtics lost. Many believed Boston could have won if Russell hadn't been injured.
November 7, 1959: "The Big Collision" - Russell vs. Chamberlain
On November 7, 1959, the Celtics, led by Bill Russell, faced the Philadelphia Warriors, led by the towering Wilt Chamberlain, in a game dubbed "The Big Collision." Despite Chamberlain outscoring Russell 30 to 22, the Celtics won 115-106. This game marked the beginning of one of basketball's greatest rivalries.
1959: First NBA Player to Visit Africa
In 1959, Bill Russell made history as the first NBA player to visit Africa, demonstrating his commitment to breaking down barriers and fostering global connections.
1959: Start of Eight Consecutive NBA Championships
The Boston Celtics, led by Bill Russell, began their streak of eight consecutive NBA championships in 1959.
1959: Celtics Recapture the NBA Title
The Celtics had a record-breaking season in 1959, winning 52 games and ultimately sweeping the Minneapolis Lakers 4-0 in the NBA Finals to reclaim the championship. Russell's performance was crucial to their success, earning him praise from opponents like Lakers coach John Kundla.
1959: Record-Breaking Finals Performance
In 1959, Bill Russell set the NBA Finals record for highest rebound per game average with an incredible 29.5 rebounds per game, further demonstrating his dominance in the championship series.
1959: First MVP Award
In 1959, Bill Russell earned his first NBA MVP award, marking the beginning of a period of dominance during which he would win five MVP awards throughout his career.
February 5, 1960: Russell's Record-Breaking Rebounding Performance
Russell set a record on February 5, 1960, by grabbing 51 rebounds in a single game against the Syracuse Nationals. This record stood until Chamberlain broke it later that year.
March 29, 1960: Dominance in NBA Finals
On March 29, 1960, Bill Russell set a new NBA Finals record for most rebounds in a single game by securing an incredible 40 rebounds against the St. Louis Hawks.
April 9, 1960: Rebounding Streak Begins
Beginning on April 9, 1960, Bill Russell embarked on a remarkable streak of 15 consecutive games with 20 or more rebounds, showcasing his unmatched consistency in dominating the boards.
November 24, 1960: Chamberlain Breaks Russell's Rebounding Record
On November 24, 1960, Wilt Chamberlain broke Russell's single-game rebounding record by grabbing 55 rebounds against the Celtics. Despite this, the Celtics still won the game 132-129.
1960: Continued All-Star Recognition
From 1960 to 1962, Bill Russell continued to earn recognition for his outstanding play by being selected to the NBA All-Star team for three consecutive seasons.
1960: Celtics' Dominant Season and Playoff Run
The 1960-61 NBA season saw the Celtics win a then-record 59 regular-season games. Their success continued into the playoffs, where they defeated Chamberlain's Warriors in the Eastern Division finals and went on to win their third championship in four years against the Hawks. Russell's performance in the finals was particularly noteworthy, including an NBA Finals-record 40 rebounds in Game 2.
1961: 1961 Celtics Boycott
Bill Russell and his Black teammates on the Boston Celtics refused to play in a 1961 exhibition game in Lexington, Kentucky, after they were denied service at a local restaurant. This event, known as the 1961 Celtics boycott, brought attention to the issue of racial segregation in the United States.
1961: Consecutive MVP Awards
From 1961 to 1963, Bill Russell achieved the remarkable feat of winning three consecutive NBA MVP awards, solidifying his status as the league's most valuable player during that era.
1961: Start of the 1961-62 NBA Season
Russell achieved a career-high in the 1961-62 NBA season, averaging 18.9 points per game. Despite Chamberlain's record-breaking season with 50.4 points per game, the Celtics made history by becoming the first team to win 60 games in a season. Russell's performance earned him the league's MVP award.
1961: Celtics Secure Back-to-Back Championships
The Celtics maintained their dominance in the 1961 NBA season, winning 57 games and ultimately securing the championship against the Los Angeles Lakers. This victory marked their second consecutive championship win.
April 18, 1962: Repeat Performance in NBA Finals
On April 18, 1962, Bill Russell matched his own NBA Finals record by grabbing another 40 rebounds against the Los Angeles Lakers, solidifying his reputation as a rebounding force.
1962: Celtics Clinch Championship in a Thrilling Finals Series
The 1962 NBA Finals saw the Celtics face off against the Los Angeles Lakers in a nail-biting series. Russell recorded his first career triple-double in Game 6. The series went to a dramatic Game 7, where Russell played a pivotal role in securing the win for the Celtics with a clutch performance, including 30 points and 40 rebounds, tying his own NBA Finals record.
1962: Cousy Retires; Celtics Draft Havlicek
The Celtics faced a significant change after the 1962-63 NBA season with the retirement of Bob Cousy. However, they drafted John Havlicek, who would become a key player for the team.
1962: Celtics' Hard-Fought Playoff Run and Russell's Defensive Prowess
The Celtics, led by Russell, faced tough competition in the 1962 NBA playoffs, particularly from Chamberlain's Philadelphia Warriors. In a pivotal Game 7 of the Eastern Division championships, Russell managed to limit Chamberlain to 22 points, well below his season average, contributing to the Celtics' victory.
January 31, 1963: Russell Misses White House Meeting
Before a game against the Cincinnati Royals, the Celtics had a scheduled tour of the White House. Russell, unaware that President Kennedy would be present, overslept and missed the meeting, highlighting Auerbach's policy of discouraging players from political endorsements.
February 10, 1963: Russell's First Regular Season Triple-Double
Russell achieved his first regular-season triple-double on February 10, 1963, recording 17 points, 19 rebounds, and 10 assists in a game against the New York Knicks.
April 16, 1963: Rebounding Streak Ends
On April 16, 1963, Bill Russell's incredible streak of 15 consecutive games with 20 or more rebounds came to an end, marking the end of a historic run.
1963: Sports Illustrated Article
In 1963, Sports Illustrated published an article in which Bill Russell spoke highly of George Powles, expressing his immense gratitude towards him.
1963: Celtics' Dominant Season and Championship Win
In 1963, the Boston Celtics had the league's best record, going 58-22. Bill Russell played a crucial role, averaging 15 points and a career-high 24.7 rebounds, leading the NBA in rebounds. They defeated the Cincinnati Royals and then the San Francisco Warriors in the NBA Finals, marking their sixth consecutive championship and seventh in Russell's eight seasons with the team.
1963: Continued Dominance
In 1963, Bill Russell continued his reign as one of the NBA's elite players, earning both All-NBA First Team and NBA MVP honors.
1964: Celtics Set Record with 62 Wins
During the 1964-65 NBA season, the Celtics achieved a league-record 62 wins. Russell maintained his dominance, averaging 14.1 points and 24.1 rebounds, securing his second rebounding title and fifth MVP award.
1964: All-Star and All-NBA Selection
In 1964, Bill Russell's consistent excellence earned him both an NBA All-Star selection and a place on the All-NBA Second Team.
March 11, 1965: Russell Grabs 49 Rebounds
On March 11, 1965, in a game against the Detroit Pistons, Bill Russell pulled down a remarkable 49 rebounds, tying for the third-most in a single game in NBA history. He also contributed 27 points and 6 assists in the Celtics' 112-100 victory.
1965: Russell's Salary Demand
When Wilt Chamberlain became the first NBA player to earn $100,000 in salary in 1965, Bill Russell demanded and received a $100,001 salary from the Celtics.
1965: Fifth MVP Award
In 1965, Bill Russell further cemented his legacy by earning his fifth and final NBA MVP award, tying him for second all-time with Michael Jordan.
1965: Celtics Battle 76ers in Eastern Division Finals
The 1965 Eastern Division finals saw the Celtics face off against Wilt Chamberlain and the Philadelphia 76ers. Russell's defense was pivotal, limiting Chamberlain's impact. In a crucial Game 5, Russell showcased his all-around skills with 12 points, 28 rebounds, 7 assists, 10 blocks, and 6 steals. The Celtics ultimately won the series in seven games, with Havlicek's famous steal securing the victory.
1965: Russell's Rebounding Average Dips Below 23
In the 1965-66 NBA season, Russell averaged 12.9 points and 22.8 rebounds per game. This marked the first time in seven years that his rebounds per game average fell below 23.
April 16, 1966: Russell Becomes First Black Head Coach in NBA History
On April 16, 1966, Bill Russell made history by agreeing to become the head coach of the Boston Celtics, a role he officially assumed two days later. This landmark decision made him the first black head coach in NBA history.
1966: All-Star Streak Continues
Bill Russell's consecutive All-Star game streak continued from 1966 to 1968, as he was selected to represent the Eastern Conference for three more seasons.
1966: Bill Russell Professional Basketball Shoe
In 1966, Bill Russell had his own signature shoe designed by Bristol Manufacturing Corporation: the Bill Russell Professional Basketball Shoe.
1966: Appointment as Head Coach of the Celtics
In 1966, Bill Russell was appointed as the head coach of the Celtics. During a press conference, he addressed questions about his ability to perform the role impartially as the first Black head coach in a major league sport, emphasizing respect for players' abilities.
1966: The New York Times Profiles Russell
In 1966, The New York Times published a profile on Bill Russell, highlighting his key characteristics: pride, intelligence, humor, a strong sense of dignity, capacity for compassion, and an unwavering commitment to his principles.
1966: Celtics Secure Eighth Consecutive Championship
The Boston Celtics continued their dominance in 1966, winning their eighth consecutive NBA championship. They overcame Chamberlain's 76ers in the Eastern Division finals and then triumphed over the Los Angeles Lakers in a tightly contested NBA Finals. Russell's performance in Game 7 was instrumental, scoring 25 points and grabbing 32 rebounds in a 95-93 victory.
1966: End of Eight Consecutive NBA Championships
The Boston Celtics' streak of eight consecutive NBA championships, led by Bill Russell, ended in 1966.
1966: Go Up for Glory Publication
Bill Russell published his memoir, "Go Up for Glory," in 1966. In the book, Russell shared his experiences with racism and segregation.
1967: Support for Muhammad Ali
Bill Russell joined other prominent African-American athletes and a political leader at the 1967 Cleveland Summit to express their support for Muhammad Ali's refusal to be drafted into the military during the Vietnam War.
1967: Celtics' Championship Streak Ends
The Boston Celtics' eight-year championship streak ended in 1967. Wilt Chamberlain's Philadelphia 76ers, with a record-breaking 68 regular-season wins, proved too strong, defeating the Celtics 4-1 in the Eastern Division finals. The 76ers went on to win the NBA championship.
1967: NCAA Bans the Dunk Shot Due to Lew Alcindor
The NCAA banned the dunk shot in 1967 due to Lew Alcindor's dominance, though this rule was later repealed.
1968: Dorothy Anstett Crowned Miss USA
In 1968, Dorothy Anstett, who would later become Bill Russell's second wife, was crowned Miss USA.
1968: Celtics Overcome Adversity to Win Championship
The 1968 NBA playoffs were marked by the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., deeply affecting both the Celtics and the 76ers. Despite trailing 3-1 in the Eastern Division finals, the Celtics, fueled by a resilient performance from John Havlicek, mounted a remarkable comeback to win the series. They then went on to defeat the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals, securing Russell's tenth championship in twelve years.
1968: Sportsman of the Year
In 1968, Bill Russell's remarkable accomplishments on and off the court earned him the prestigious title of "Sportsman of the Year" by Sports Illustrated.
1968: Russell's Clutch Plays Secure Game 7 Victory
Game 7 of the 1968 Eastern Division finals saw Russell make several clutch plays in the closing seconds, securing a 100-96 victory for the Celtics. He made a crucial free throw, blocked a shot by Chet Walker, grabbed a rebound off a missed shot by Hal Greer, and passed the ball to Sam Jones for the game-winning basket.
1968: Russell's Disillusionment and Exhaustion
Following the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy in 1968, Russell felt deeply disillusioned with the state of the US. His marriage was also deteriorating. He started the season 15 pounds overweight, skipped mandatory coach meetings, and lacked his usual energy. After experiencing chest pains, he was diagnosed with acute exhaustion.
1969: Russell and Chamberlain's Friendship Ends
After Game 7 of the 1969 NBA Finals, where Wilt Chamberlain suffered a knee injury, Bill Russell made a comment that was misconstrued as calling Chamberlain a "malingerer." This led to a rift between the two friends, who did not speak for over two decades.
1969: Bill Russell Retires from the NBA
Bill Russell announced his retirement from the NBA in 1969 after leading the Boston Celtics to a championship victory. His departure came as a surprise to many and left the Celtics without a coach and center.
1969: End of NBA Career and Retirement as Celtics Coach
Bill Russell ended his NBA playing career and retired as coach of the Celtics in 1969.
1969: Celtics Enter Playoffs as Fourth Seed
Despite their struggles during the regular season, the Celtics still made it to the playoffs. However, their 48-34 record meant they entered the 1969 NBA playoffs as the fourth-seeded team in the Eastern Conference.
1969: 1969 NBA Finals
In 1969, Bill Russell and the Boston Celtics faced off against Wilt Chamberlain and the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals. The series was highly contested, with the Celtics employing various strategies, including a decision to initially not double-team Jerry West, and later reversing that decision. The Celtics ultimately won Game 7 in a thrilling finish.
1969: Defensive Recognition
In 1969, the NBA introduced the All-Defensive Teams, and Bill Russell was rightfully selected to the All-NBA First Team, recognizing his exceptional defensive skills.
1970: NBA 25th Anniversary Team
In 1970, as part of the NBA's 25th-anniversary celebration, Bill Russell was honored with a well-deserved spot on the NBA 25th Anniversary Team.
1970: Athlete of the Decade
In 1970, The Sporting News recognized Bill Russell's remarkable achievements and impact on the game of basketball by naming him the "Athlete of the Decade."
1970: The Celtics Miss the Playoffs
For the first time since 1950, the Boston Celtics did not make the playoffs in 1970, following Bill Russell's retirement the previous year.
1971: NBA Commentary for ABC
Bill Russell began providing commentary for NBA games on ABC's Game of the Week in 1971.
1971: Selection to the NBA 25th Anniversary Team
Bill Russell was selected to the NBA 25th Anniversary Team in 1971.
March 12, 1972: Celtics Jersey Retirement
The Celtics retired Bill Russell's No. 6 jersey on March 12, 1972. Notably, Russell had worn this number during his time at USF and with the 1956 U.S. Olympic team.
1972: Jersey Retirement Ceremony Refusal
Bill Russell declined to attend the ceremony held in 1972 to retire his No. 6 jersey.
1973: Divorce from Rose Swisher
After 17 years of marriage, Bill Russell and Rose Swisher divorced in 1973, marking the end of a significant chapter in their lives.
1973: Coaching Career Beginnings
Bill Russell's coaching career began in 1973 with the Seattle SuperSonics, marking his transition from player to coach.
1973: Start of Coaching Career with the Seattle SuperSonics
Bill Russell's coaching career began in 1973 with the Seattle SuperSonics.
1973: NBA Introduces Blocks and Steals as Official Stats
It's noteworthy that blocks and steals were not officially recorded statistics in the NBA until the 1973-74 season. Therefore, while Russell's defensive prowess was evident throughout his career, these specific stats were not tracked during his playing days.
1975: Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Induction
Bill Russell was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1975. However, he chose not to attend the ceremony.
1975: Induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
Bill Russell was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1975.
1975: Hall of Fame Induction Refusal
Bill Russell chose not to attend his induction ceremony into the Hall of Fame in 1975.
1977: Marriage to Dorothy Anstett
Bill Russell entered into his second marriage with Dorothy Anstett, Miss USA of 1968, in 1977.
1977: End of Tenure with the Seattle SuperSonics
Bill Russell's time as coach and general manager of the Seattle SuperSonics ended in 1977.
1977: Departure from the SuperSonics
In 1977, Bill Russell's tenure with the SuperSonics ended. Despite leading the team to their first playoff appearance, his coaching style, which emphasized defense and teamwork, wasn't a good fit for the SuperSonics.
1978: Evolution of High Jump Techniques
By 1978, the Fosbury Flop technique had become dominant in high jump, a technique not used by Russell and other high jumpers of his era.
November 3, 1979: Saturday Night Live Appearance
On November 3, 1979, Bill Russell hosted an episode of Saturday Night Live, where he participated in various sports-themed skits.
1979: Change in MVP Voting
Until the 1979–80 NBA season, players voted for the MVP award, while the media voted for the All-NBA teams. This distinction is notable because Russell was often named to the All-NBA Second Team despite his MVP status.
1980: Divorce from Dorothy Anstett
Bill Russell's second marriage, to Dorothy Anstett, ended in divorce in 1980.
1980: Selection to the NBA 35th Anniversary Team
In 1980, Bill Russell was named to the NBA 35th Anniversary Team.
1980: NBA 35th Anniversary Team
In 1980, Bill Russell's enduring legacy in basketball was further solidified when he was chosen for the NBA 35th Anniversary Team.
1980: Greatest Player Recognition
In 1980, the Professional Basketball Writers Association of America bestowed upon Bill Russell the highest honor, declaring him the "Greatest Player in the History of the NBA."
1985: Mentorship of Benoit Benjamin
In 1985, Bill Russell was asked by his former teammate, Don Chaney, to mentor Benoit Benjamin, a young basketball player for the Los Angeles Clippers. Russell provided his guidance without compensation.
March 7, 1986: Appearance in Miami Vice
On March 7, 1986, Bill Russell appeared in an episode of the television series Miami Vice titled "The Fix," portraying the character Judge Roger Ferguson.
1987: Coaching the Sacramento Kings
Bill Russell began coaching the Sacramento Kings in 1987.
1987: Coaching the Sacramento Kings
Bill Russell took on the role of head coach for the Sacramento Kings in 1987.
1988: End of Coaching Stint with the Sacramento Kings
Bill Russell's time coaching the Sacramento Kings concluded in 1988.
1988: End of Coaching Tenure with the Kings
Bill Russell's time with the Kings concluded in 1988 after a challenging season.
1995: Celtics Move to FleetCenter
In 1995, the Celtics relocated from the Boston Garden to the FleetCenter, now recognized as the TD Garden.
1996: Recognition as One of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History
Bill Russell was named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History in 1996.
1996: Marriage to Marilyn Nault
In 1996, Bill Russell married Marilyn Nault, marking the beginning of his third marriage.
1996: NBA 50th Anniversary Team
In 1996, during the NBA's 50th-anniversary celebration, Bill Russell's status as one of the game's all-time greats was reaffirmed with his selection to the NBA 50th Anniversary Team.
May 6, 1999: Jersey Re-retirement Ceremony
On May 6, 1999, the Celtics held a ceremony to re-retire Bill Russell's jersey at the FleetCenter. The event was attended by notable figures such as Wilt Chamberlain, Larry Bird, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Russell's emotional response to the crowd's standing ovation highlighted the reconciliation with the city of Boston.
October 1999: Passing of Wilt Chamberlain
Following the death of Wilt Chamberlain in October 1999, Bill Russell became more present in the public eye.
1999: Chamberlain's Death and Russell's Eulogy
Following a period of estrangement, Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain reconciled. When Chamberlain passed away in 1999, Russell delivered a moving eulogy, referring to their relationship as a "competition" rather than a rivalry.
1999: ESPN's Greatest Athletes
In 1999, Bill Russell's exceptional athletic achievements were recognized by ESPN, as he was ranked No. 18 on their list of the "50 Greatest Athletes of the 20th Century."
2000: Tom Heinsohn's Comments on Russell's Legacy
In 2000, Russell's former teammate, Tom Heinsohn, poignantly highlighted the paradoxical relationship between Russell's immense contribution to the Celtics' success and the city's complex response, noting the stark contrast in recognition compared to Ted Williams.
2001: Publication of "Russell Rules: 11 Lessons on Leadership from the Twentieth Century's Greatest Winner"
In 2001, Bill Russell and David Falkner co-authored and published the book "Russell Rules: 11 Lessons on Leadership from the Twentieth Century's Greatest Winner."
2005: Publication Highlights Russell's Experiences with Racism
In 2005, a book by sportswriter Taylor shed light on Bill Russell's heightened sensitivity to racial prejudice, even perceiving insults where others didn't. The book discussed Russell's activism within the Black Power movement.
January 2006: Mediation of Shaq-Kobe Feud
In January 2006, Bill Russell played a role in mediating the feud between Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant, encouraging reconciliation between the two basketball stars.
2006: Induction into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame
Bill Russell was among the first inductees into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006.
May 20, 2007: Honorary Doctorate from Suffolk University
Bill Russell received an honorary doctorate from Suffolk University on May 20, 2007, where he also delivered the commencement address.
June 7, 2007: Honorary Degree from Harvard University
On June 7, 2007, Harvard University awarded Bill Russell with an honorary degree.
June 18, 2007: Induction into the FIBA Hall of Fame
Bill Russell's contributions to basketball were further recognized on June 18, 2007, when he was inducted as a member of the inaugural class of the FIBA Hall of Fame.
2007: ESPN's Top Centers
In 2007, ESPN conducted a poll to determine the best centers of all time, and Bill Russell secured the third spot, behind Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Wilt Chamberlain.
2007: Enshrinement into the FIBA Hall of Fame
In 2007, Bill Russell was enshrined in the FIBA Hall of Fame.
December 2008: We Are Boston Leadership Award
In December 2008, Bill Russell was honored with the We Are Boston Leadership Award.
2008: Golden Plate Award
Bill Russell received the Golden Plate Award from the Academy of Achievement in 2008.
January 2009: Death of Marilyn Nault
Bill Russell experienced the loss of his third wife, Marilyn Nault, in January 2009.
February 14, 2009: NBA Finals MVP Award Renamed
On February 14, 2009, NBA Commissioner David Stern announced that the NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award would be renamed the Bill Russell NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award in honor of Bill Russell, an 11-time NBA champion.
June 14, 2009: Honorary Degree from Dartmouth College
Bill Russell was honored with an honorary degree from Dartmouth College on June 14, 2009.
2009: Russell Shares His Grandfather's Motto
In 2009, Bill Russell shared his personal motto, passed down from his grandfather: "A man has to draw a line inside himself that he won't allow any man to cross." This motto reflects Russell's strong sense of self-respect and his refusal to be disrespected or intimidated.
2009: Slam Magazine's Top Players
In 2009, Slam magazine ranked Bill Russell as the third-best player of all time, trailing only Michael Jordan and Wilt Chamberlain, further solidifying his place among basketball's elite.
2009: Recognition of Basketball IQ
In 2009, former basketball player Bill Bradley wrote in The New York Times Book Review that Bill Russell was "the smartest player ever to play the game [of basketball]", highlighting his exceptional basketball IQ.
2009: NBA Finals MVP Award Renamed in Honor of Bill Russell
The NBA Finals MVP Award was renamed in honor of Bill Russell in 2009.
2010: Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom
Bill Russell's contributions extended far beyond the basketball court, and in 2010, he was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the nation's highest civilian awards.
2010: Reflections on the Celtics Organization
In 2010, Bill Russell reflected on his time with the Celtics organization, highlighting their progressive stance on racial issues during the 1950s and 1960s. He acknowledged the organization's efforts in promoting racial equality, both in terms of tangible achievements and his personal experiences.
2011: Presidential Medal of Freedom Awarded to Bill Russell
Barack Obama awarded Bill Russell the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his achievements in basketball and the civil rights movement in 2011.
2011: Presidential Medal of Freedom
In 2011, Bill Russell was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama.
October 16, 2013: Incident at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
On October 16, 2013, Bill Russell was arrested at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport for carrying a loaded firearm. He was cited and released, but the incident highlighted the importance of airport security regulations.
November 1, 2013: Statue Unveiled in Boston
On November 1, 2013, a statue of Bill Russell was unveiled in Boston's City Hall Plaza, a permanent tribute to his legacy and impact on the city, the statue captures him in action, surrounded by eleven pillars representing his eleven championships.
2015: Children's Statues Added to Russell's Monument
In 2015, two statues of children were added to Bill Russell's monument in Boston, symbolizing his dedication to youth and his belief in their potential.
June 15, 2017: Inaugural Recipient of the NBA Lifetime Achievement Award
On June 15, 2017, Bill Russell was bestowed with the inaugural NBA Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to his enduring impact on the sport.
September 26, 2017: Social Justice Advocacy
On September 26, 2017, Bill Russell showed his support for the U.S. national anthem kneeling protests by posting a photo of himself kneeling on Twitter. He wore his Presidential Medal of Freedom and captioned the image with a message of solidarity against social injustice.
November 15, 2019: Acceptance of Hall of Fame Ring
On November 15, 2019, Bill Russell decided to accept his Hall of Fame ring in a private ceremony surrounded by his family.
August 2, 2020: West Coast Conference Adopts the "Russell Rule"
On August 2, 2020, the West Coast Conference (WCC), home to Russell's alma mater, University of San Francisco, took a significant step towards diversity and inclusion by implementing the "Russell Rule," inspired by the NFL's Rooney Rule and named in honor of Bill Russell, this rule mandates the inclusion of candidates from underrepresented groups in the final selection process for key positions within athletic departments.
2020: ESPN's Top NBA Players
In 2020, ESPN released their list of the top 74 NBA players of all time, and Bill Russell secured the No. 4 spot, highlighting his enduring legacy as one of the game's greatest.
October 2021: Honored as One of the League's 75 Greatest Players
In October 2021, Bill Russell's legacy was further cemented when he was recognized as one of the 75 greatest players in NBA history, a testament to his unparalleled skill and impact on the game.
2021: Selection to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team and Second Hall of Fame Induction
Bill Russell was selected to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team and inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame for a second time, this time for his coaching career, in 2021.
2021: Basketball Hall of Fame Induction as a Coach
In 2021, Bill Russell was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame as a coach, and he was present at this ceremony.
2021: NBA 75th Anniversary Team
In 2021, Bill Russell's impact on basketball continued to be celebrated as he was named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team, a testament to his lasting legacy.
July 31, 2022: Death of Bill Russell
Bill Russell passed away on July 31, 2022.
August 11, 2022: No. 6 Jersey Retired League-Wide
On August 11, 2022, Bill Russell's No. 6 jersey was retired across the entire NBA, marking the first time in league history that a jersey was retired league-wide, a testament to his immense impact on the sport.
2022: NBA Retires Bill Russell's No. 6 Jersey League-Wide
Following Bill Russell's death in 2022, the NBA retired his No. 6 jersey across the league, making him the only NBA player and the third athlete in major North American professional sports to receive this honor.
2022: NBA 75th Anniversary Team Rankings
In 2022, as part of the NBA's 75th-anniversary celebrations, ESPN and The Athletic released their respective rankings of the league's all-time greatest players. ESPN placed Bill Russell at No. 6 on their list, while The Athletic positioned him at No. 4, showcasing the continued recognition of his impact on the game.
2024: Celtics Franchise Leader
As of 2024, Bill Russell holds the Boston Celtics franchise records for most career rebounds, most minutes per game (42.3), and most rebounds per game.