1st August, 2022
Former U.S President Barack Obama has reacted to the demise of Bill Russell, the Boston Celtics legend and Basketball Hall of Famer.
Russell’s family announced that he died on Sunday at 88.
On Twitter, Obama wrote; “Today, we lost a giant. As tall as Bill Russell stood, his legacy rises far higher—both as a player and as a person.
“Perhaps more than anyone else, Bill knew what it took to win and what it took to lead. On the court, he was the greatest champion in basketball history.
“Off of it, he was a civil rights trailblazer—marching with Dr King and standing with Muhammad Ali.
“For decades, Bill endured insults and vandalism, but never let it stop him from speaking up for what’s right. I learned so much from the way he played, the way he coached, and the way he lived his life. Michelle and I send our love to Bill’s family, and everyone who admired him” he added.
Russell was a towering figure in basketball history, leading the Boston Celtics to 11 NBA titles (two as a player-coach) in 13 years, an unprecedented degree of success in professional sports.