Boston Celtics players have paid homage to Hall of Famer Bill Russell for being a civil rights pioneer.
The Celtics' Twitter account tweeted several videos of players thanking Russell for paving the way for them as African American athletes.
You inspired a new wave of athletes. #BecauseOfYou, @RealBillRussell. pic.twitter.com/1MZpiDILUi
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) September 3, 2020
Bill Russell was a pioneer in so many ways, both on and off the court. #BecauseOfYou, @RealBillRussell, new doors were opened for future generations. pic.twitter.com/EVVjkRpn5J
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) September 3, 2020
#BecauseOfYou, @RealBillRussell. pic.twitter.com/BxkKjGjKZb
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) September 3, 2020
"#BecauseOfYou, @RealBillRussell, there is a standard for being a human being AND being an athlete." – @FCHWPO pic.twitter.com/70xQw3RHwo
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) September 3, 2020
In 2011, then-President Barack Obama honored Bill Russell with the majestic Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest honor an American civilian can receive.
In 2013, the city of Boston unveiled an interactive statue for the legacy of Russell in City Hall Plaza. He's not only one of the best players in NBA history, but a civil rights icon who will be remembered by African Americans for decades and decades.
With the Celtics, Russell averaged 15.1 points, 22.5 rebounds and 4.3 assists while shooting 44.0 percent from the field. He won 11 championships, five MVPs and made the All-Star team 12 times.
In 2009, the NBA renamed the Finals MVP trophy after Russell, who collected many trophies with the Celtics. He is one of seven players to win an NCAA championship, NBA title and Gold medal.
There will certainly never be another Bill Russell.
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