The basketball world recently lost its greatest champion, the man with 11 rings, Bill Russell. Bill was loved for his achievements both on and off the court and he is widely regarded as one of the most influential players ever. This claim was further solidified by former NBA champion Shaquille O’Neal.
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Talking on The Big Podcast with Shaq, the former Los Angeles Lakers star talked about Bill and his legacy. Moreover, he talked about Russell’s influence on him personally and also on the basketball world in general.
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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – OCTOBER 23: Former NBA player Shaquille O’Neal attends the unveiling of the Shaq Courts at the Doolittle Complex donated by Icy Hot and the Shaquille O’Neal Foundation in partnership with the city of Las Vegas on October 23, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images for Icy Hot)
Shaq said, “I realized if it wasn’t according to plan, I’d just be another tall, black guy. Basketball has afforded me many, many opportunities to meet people, and it’s a great thing but, I’ll never complain about nothing ever again. He [Bill Russell] meant a lot to me and the fact that I got to meet him and that my father trained me to be like him.”
This just goes on to show much great Bill Russell was. Alongside his numerous achievements on the court, his actions off the court make him greater. Bill was known for his philanthropy and ventures involving issues concerning the public.
How good of a player was Bill Russell?
Boston Celtics legend Bill Russell needs no introduction. He is the greatest champion the league has ever seen. After all, he has 11 titles to his name!
He was selected by the Hawks as the second overall pick during the 1956 draft. However, he was traded to the Celtics on draft night which is widely considered one of the craziest draft night trades.
In his 13 seasons in the league, he made it to the All-Star games on 12 occasions! He retired with an average of 15.1 points, 4.3 assists, and 22.5 rebounds after the 1968-69 season.
Bill Russell passed away peacefully on the 31st of July 2022 at the age of 88. His legacy will be honored with the NBA retiring the number 6 jersey. However, players like LeBron James, who currently wears number 6 may continue to do so.
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Do you think Bill Russell is the GOAT? Let us know in the comments down below.
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Sreeda U M