Bill Russell was a freak.
Back in his basketball playing days — the 50s and 60s — people his he size simply could not do the things he could do. If you were 6-6 back then, you played center because you lacked quickness and such skills as dribbling, passing and shooting. Your talent was being tall
Russell was listed at 6-10 although most who saw him thought he was an inch or two shorter. Whatever his height, he could do it all.
Nothing better, however, than winning. He’s the greatest winner of all-time in team sports. Two NCAA titles at San Francisco and 11 NBA titles in 13 years.
During his playing career, Russell was considered surly by the white media. He even asked to be paid for interviews. He was among the first black militant athletes. While he never stopped speaking out for “his people”, he softened with age and became quite entertaining.
Eventually, he found someone who mirrored himself on the court. Wilt Chamberlain, 7-2, was an incredible athlete, too. He simply couldn’t win like Russell.
Bill Russell died peacefully last weekend at 88. He’ll never be replaced when it comes to winning.
