Boston Celtics Hall of Fame center and NBA legend Bill Russell had a hilarious retort for a Twitter user who said he was “looking down from heaven smiling.”
Russell assured the Twittersphere he was still alive and well as he watched Boston's game against the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday afternoon. He also gave a shoutout to fellow Celtics legend Paul Pierce, who made a virtual cameo during the game.
Just in case anyone cares, I am still alive, at least I was the last time I checked. I’m watching @celtics vs @trailblazers @NBA @NBAonABC Hey @paulpierce34 can you let them know I’m still hanging in there https://t.co/McGp25rdvd
— TheBillRussell (@RealBillRussell) August 2, 2020
Not only is Bill Russell very much alive, but he is also incredibly active.
Russell has been very vocal in recent months with respect to matters of social justice and the fight for racial equality. He has also made his voice heard in terms of voting rights.
For what it's worth, he previously blasted President Donald Trump for his opposition to mail-in ballots.
Hello @realDonaldTrump there is a good reason for #VoteByMail not sure if you have heard of #coronavirus #COVIDー19 or better known as a #pandemic bit I don’t want to risk my life to #vote ! @MSNBC @CNN
— TheBillRussell (@RealBillRussell) May 21, 2020
This was not the first time Russell addressed Trump, as he also responded after the President made comments about athletes choosing to kneel during the national anthem.
#Trump you projected your narrative that #TakingAKnee is disrespectful & #UnAmerican it was never about that! You are divisive & a coward. It takes true courage 2 stand 4 what is right & risk your life in the midst of a #pandemic #Proud2kneel #BlackLivesMatter @MSNBC @BostonGlobe https://t.co/nhNITHSrxo pic.twitter.com/h0PuUYVFwu
— TheBillRussell (@RealBillRussell) June 7, 2020
Bill Russell remains a revered figure and activist in the NBA community, and it appears he is excited to be watching some Celtics basketball once again.
Boston barely eked out the win against Portland on Sunday. The Celtics took control early, with Jayson Tatum seemingly scoring at will after a brutal 2-for-18 shooting performance on Friday against the Milwaukee Bucks.
But the Trail Blazers clawed back, overcoming a 24-point deficit to tie the game in the fourth quarter. The two teams battled down the stretch, but the Celtics held on behind a pair of late tripled from Marcus Smart and Jaylen Brown.
Russell would undoubtedly love to see his old team win another NBA title, and it seems he will be following along closely as Boston's journey unfolds in Orlando.
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