Boston Celtics legend Bill Russell is one of the biggest icons of the game and beyond. However, during one of former POTUS Barack Obama’s speeches, the announcer mistook him for someone else.
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During one of his speeches, Russell was in attendance. Interestingly enough, the announcer ended up making a huge blunder as he referred to Russell as an iconic Hollywood actor.
Announcer commits huge blunder on live TV as he fails to recognize Boston Celtics legend
Bill Russell and Morgan Freeman do have many things in common. They both are regarded as GOATS in their respective industries. Moreover, both are two of the most decorated personalities in their field.
They also look quite similar which caused a historic blunder on live TV. During the president’s inaugural address in 2013, ABC’s anchor George Stephanopoulos introduced Russell as Freeman.
He said, “That’s Morgan Freeman, I think, right there on the Capitol steps.” The announcer quickly realized his mistake and said, “No, Bill Russell, I’m sorry.“
Interestingly enough, Russell was sporting a Boston Celtics cap to make it easy for people to recognize him. Moreover, Freeman and the NBA legend have a huge height difference. Freeman is 6-foot-2 inches tall while Russell is 6-foot-9 inches tall.
Bill Russell is a recipient of the President’s Medal of Freedom
Boston Celtics legend Bill Russell is considered one of the greatest players ever. He has 11 NBA titles to his name along with 5 MVP awards and he also has 4 rebound titles.
He rightfully received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2011 which was awarded by former POTUS Barack Obama. Apart from having a spectacular career in the NBA, Russell was also an activist.
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PHOENIX – FEBRUARY 14: NBA legend Bill Russell sits courtside at NBA All-Star Saturday Night, part of 2009 NBA All-Star Weekend at US Airways Center on February 14, 2009 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
Following the assassination of an activist in Mississippi, Russell put his life on the line and reached out to the activist’s brother in order to offer help.
He also offered to leave the Celtics that season if his presence would have advanced the civil rights push. He was coming off his fifth NBA title and third MVP award that season.
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What is your favorite moment of Bill Russell? Let us know in the comments down below.
