Former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/washington-wizards" rel="sponsored nofollow">Washington Wizards</a> star Gilbert Arenas, never one to hold back, stirred up controversy with his latest hot take — claiming Nikola Jokic already deserves a spot among the top five centers in NBA history. His bold statement has only added fuel to an already growing debate. Jokic just wrapped up another historic season, marked by jaw-dropping numbers and rare statistical feats.



With a near triple-double average and unmatched consistency, the Denver Nuggets superstar continues to redefine what’s possible at the center position. In a recent appearance on Vlad TV, Arenas revealed that if he were to update his list of the five greatest centers in NBA history, he would remove 11-time champion Bill Russell — and insert Nikola Jokic in his place.



“For Jokic? I’m knocking off Bill Russell,” Arenas said. “Let’s just be honest — he played in the ’60s? Yeah, so there were, what, six, seven Black players in the league at that time.”



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/gilbert-arenas">Arenas</a>‘ logic centers on context. Russell dominated in his era, no question — his Celtics reigned supreme. But Arenas argues that the level of competition and athleticism in Russell’s time simply doesn’t compare to the modern NBA, where Jokić thrives against elite global talent on a nightly basis.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250602_BUS_409587_GettyImages-2215923632-1-1024x576_0a61afa1.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-404004" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/23220552/GettyImages-2215923632-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/23220552/GettyImages-2215923632-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/23220552/GettyImages-2215923632-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/23220552/GettyImages-2215923632-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/23220552/GettyImages-2215923632-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/23220552/GettyImages-2215923632-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/23220552/GettyImages-2215923632-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/23220552/GettyImages-2215923632-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets walks down the floor during the first half of game seven of the Western Conference semifinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder </figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nikola-jokic">Jokic</a> is not just a dominant big man — he’s revolutionized the center position. A three-time MVP and two-time runner-up, the Serbian superstar is the engine of the Nuggets’ offense, leading the team in scoring, assists, and rebounds. His court vision and basketball IQ have made him arguably the most complete center the league has ever seen.


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In contrast, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bill-russell">Bill Russell</a>’s greatness was anchored in defense, rebounding, and leadership. He was the heartbeat of the most successful dynasty in NBA history, winning 11 titles in 13 seasons with the Boston Celtics. His intangibles — effort, intelligence, and team-first mentality — remain the gold standard in basketball circles.



But that’s precisely the dividing line in this debate. Jokić, despite his individual dominance, has just one championship — and he’s playing in an era of parity. The league hasn’t seen a true dynasty in nearly a decade, with seven different champions in the last seven seasons. That makes his path steeper and more competitive than those who ruled previous eras.



Whether or not fans agree with Arenas, one thing is clear: Nikola Jokic has forced his way into the conversation. And if his <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> career continues on its current trajectory, there’s a growing case that he may end up on the Mount Rushmore of centers — if not already.

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Wizards legend Gilbert Arenas makes a bold statement in the all-time greatest centers debate - Bolavip US

miniaturas

Red Auerbach was the legendary architect behind the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics">Boston Celtics</a>‘ dynasty—a coaching mastermind and front-office pioneer who turned the franchise into the NBA‘s first true powerhouse. With nine championships as a head coach and seven more as an executive, Auerbach’s influence on the game remains unparalleled. And perhaps his most defining move? Selecting the player he believed was the greatest of all time—and no, it wasn’t Michael Jordan.



Though Auerbach passed away in 2006, his legacy lives on through his championship banners and bold decisions. In a 1991 interview with legendary sportscaster Bob Costas, Auerbach reflected on a range of topics, including his iconic career, the evolving game, and, of course, the heated GOAT debate. That’s when the Celtics patriarch made his thoughts on NBA greatness crystal clear.



“You can make a case for the greatest player of all time for [Bill] Russell, for [Larry] Bird, for [Michael] Jordan, for Magic [Johnson], and for Kareem [Abdul-Jabbar]. Those five—you can make a case as to who the greatest, most valuable player of all time is,” Auerbach told Costas.



<h2>So, who was No. 1 for Red Auerbach?</h2>



When pressed to choose, Auerbach didn’t hesitate. For him, the greatest player in NBA history was <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bill-russell">Bill Russell</a>. It wasn’t about scoring titles or flash—it was about what Russell brought to the game: his leadership, his intelligence, his ability to dominate defensively, and his unmatched record when it mattered most.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250519_BUS_401113_Bill-Russell-2-1024x576_d1bd1741.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Bill Russell in 1969" class="wp-image-389954" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/02154900/Bill-Russell-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/02154900/Bill-Russell-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/02154900/Bill-Russell-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/02154900/Bill-Russell-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/02154900/Bill-Russell-2-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/02154900/Bill-Russell-2-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/02154900/Bill-Russell-2-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/02154900/Bill-Russell-2.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Bill Russell of the Boston Celtics in 1969.</figcaption></figure>



“It’s the ability to perform under dire situations—in other words, what does he do in a clutch? What has he won? Forget about all the stats as I’ve said before. And Bill Russell would rise to occasions,” Auerbach emphasized. For a man who valued winning and team-first mentality above all else, Russell was the obvious choice.


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<h2>Auerbach’s all-time top 12 NBA players</h2>



Asked to pick his all-time team in 1990, Auerbach responded, “Can’t do it,” citing the overwhelming talent across generations. Still, he offered a 12-man list instead of the usual five—a testament to how difficult the task really is.



His picks at center: Bill Russell and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. At forward: Julius Erving, Larry Bird, Elgin Baylor, and Bob Pettit. A loaded lineup that covered eras, styles, and skill sets. But he didn’t stop there.



At guard, Auerbach selected John Havlicek, Bob Cousy, Magic Johnson, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan">Michael Jordan</a>, Oscar Robertson, and Jerry West. It was a carefully thought-out list, balancing leadership, winning pedigree, and clutch performances—a who’s who of NBA icons.



<h2>A brief look at Red Auerbach’s career</h2>



Red Auerbach served as the head coach of the Boston Celtics from 1950 to 1966, guiding the team to nine NBA championships—including an unprecedented eight straight titles from 1959 to 1966. Known for his fiery sideline demeanor and strategic genius, Auerbach revolutionized the role of the coach in professional basketball.


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After retiring from coaching, he transitioned seamlessly into the front office, where he built championship rosters as general manager and team president. He won seven more titles in those roles, most notably by drafting and trusting players like Larry Bird and Kevin McHale. Auerbach finished his career with a total of 16 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> championships, making him one of the most successful executives in sports history.

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dwyane-wade">Dwyane Wade</a> was one of the most outstanding players in the NBA for over a decade, and likely the most important star in the history of the Miami Heat. His knowledge and experience in the league has given him the perspective to weigh in on who occupies the basketball elite.



During a recent episode of his podcast The Why with Dwyane Wade, the former shooting guard explained his stance by comparing the status in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> to a hotel. “The hotel has 30 floors. We talk about the access key; when I look at the game, I look at who has access to get to the 30th floor,” he began.



For Wade, the key to the top is simple: championships. “The 30th-floor access key is winning,” he said. He immediately named the two players who, in his view, are at the highest level in NBA history: “<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bill-russell">Bill Russell</a>‘s up there, Jordan up there.”



However, Wade made it clear that this division of floors does not necessarily diminish players who haven’t won championships. “If you have not won a ring, it doesn’t mean you’re not colder than someone who has a ring,” he explained. “It’s just that you don’t have access to go to the ring floors.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250404_BUS_369693_michael-jordan-7-1024x576_36bddf86.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-316656" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/18192938/michael-jordan-7-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/18192938/michael-jordan-7-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/18192938/michael-jordan-7-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/18192938/michael-jordan-7-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/18192938/michael-jordan-7-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/18192938/michael-jordan-7-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/18192938/michael-jordan-7-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/18192938/michael-jordan-7.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Michael Jordan of the Chicago Bulls looks on during an NBA game.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Dwyane Wade reflects on his own place in NBA history</h2>



Continuing with the hotel analogy, Dwyane Wade evaluated his own performance in the NBA and, by extension, his place within this imaginary structure. “I can’t go to 30,” he admitted, despite being a three-time champion with the Heat. “I may be on floor 25, but I ain’t at floor 30. That doesn’t mean anything to me; it just means I don’t have access to go to that floor.”


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<h2>The GOAT debate according to Dwyane Wade</h2>



In the same conversation, the Miami Heat legend made it clear where he stands on the ongoing debate about who is the best player of all time. “There’s going to be a lot of arguments about, oh, he’s better because he scored more points, or he’s better because I like his game, or that he has won more rings,” Wade said.



“This conversation never goes anywhere. It’s a great conversation to have, but for me, it is what it is from the standpoint of, okay, let’s use this as a hotel,” he added.



<h2>Wade’s thoughts on Jordan and LeBron</h2>



A few days ago, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lebron-james-has-an-edge-over-michael-jordan-in-the-goat-debate-says-miami-heat-legend-dwyane-wade">Dwyane Wade hinted that LeBron James has an edge over Michael Jordan in the eternal comparison between the two</a>. “MJ averaged 20 when he came back, and he was still very good, but LeBron has stayed at a level that we haven’t seen,” D-Wade said in an interview shared by Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson. “I mean, he’s averaging 30 points per game in his 20th year in the league!”



However, on previous occasions, the former Miami guard made it clear that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan">MJ</a> is special to him. “Michael Jordan is the first iconic figure in this game, the one who took this game to heights it had never been to,” Wade said, according to Basketball Network. “I feel like we all have generational GOATs. In my generation, that is my GOAT.”



He also added that younger generations will likely choose other players. “It’s going to be Kobe (Bryant) and LeBron as the new generation’s GOATs, and that’s okay. It’s okay not to have one GOAT. Everyone doesn’t have to be on the same page.”


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Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade names the two players who are at the top of NBA history - Bolavip US

In the world of NBA basketball, debates about the “GOAT” (Greatest Of All Time) often revolve around two dominant figures: <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan">Michael Jordan</a> and LeBron James. However, during an appearance on the “All The Smoke” podcast, Seattle SuperSonics legend Shawn Kemp shocked listeners by naming a different player as the greatest of all time.



Kemp selected Bill Russell over both Jordan and LeBron, arguing that being the best player doesn’t necessarily mean being the top scorer. “People get at me when I say this, but Bill, Bill Russell. The best to play the game is not going to be the leading scorer. The best to play the game is going to be one in the middle doing a lot of different things,” Kemp explained in July 2024.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bill-russell">Bill Russell</a>, with a career scoring average of 15.1 points per game over 13 seasons, is often overlooked for his offensive output. However, his defensive prowess and ability to dominate the boards were crucial to the 11 championships he won with the Boston Celtics.



<h2>More than points: Russell’s leadership, advocacy, and collective impact</h2>



Kemp also emphasized Russell’s influence as a complete player: “Because he’s got to be able to help people out, keep the ball in play. Bill Russell was the first one blocking shots, keeping the ball in play. You know, we were blocking shots and throwing that (expletive) 17 rows into the stands. He was actually blocking shots. They were getting layups off of it, man.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250211_BUS_333479_Bill-Russell-1024x576_2eb15367.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-333537" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11104557/Bill-Russell-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11104557/Bill-Russell-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11104557/Bill-Russell-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11104557/Bill-Russell-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11104557/Bill-Russell-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11104557/Bill-Russell-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11104557/Bill-Russell-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11104557/Bill-Russell.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></figure>



While Kemp played with a more flashy and offensive style, Russell stood out for his fundamental approach, dominant defense, and ability to make his teammates better.


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<h2>Russell: A champion beyond statistics</h2>



Despite not being known for his scoring, Russell consistently ranked among the NBA’s top five in field goal percentage early in his career. In the 1958-59 season, he posted a 47.5% shooting percentage, which was the second-best in the league.



<h2>Jordan or LeBron: A comparison between legends</h2>



Kemp also shared his thoughts on other “GOAT” contenders, making a bold comparison between <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a>, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson: “I think LeBron is right up there … I don’t think LeBron should be compared to Michael Jordan either; I think he should be compared to Magic Johnson. Whoever started that (expletive) got it totally wrong. LeBron is not no (expletive) Michael Jordan. Kobe is more like Michael Jordan, and LeBron is like Magic Johnson,” Kemp said.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250211_BUS_333479_LeBron-James-Michael-Jordan-1024x576_6fd21526.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-333551" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11105531/LeBron-James-Michael-Jordan-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11105531/LeBron-James-Michael-Jordan-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11105531/LeBron-James-Michael-Jordan-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11105531/LeBron-James-Michael-Jordan-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11105531/LeBron-James-Michael-Jordan-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11105531/LeBron-James-Michael-Jordan-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11105531/LeBron-James-Michael-Jordan-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11105531/LeBron-James-Michael-Jordan.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Michael Jordan and LeBron James interact after the presentation of the NBA 75th Anniversary Team during the 2022 NBA All-Star Game at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Who is the GOAT? The eternal debate</h2>



The debate over the best player in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> history is as old as the league itself. While Michael Jordan and LeBron James are the most frequently mentioned names, other legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, and Bill Russell also deserve serious consideration. Each of these players has left an indelible mark on the game, shaping its evolution in unique ways.

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Not Michael Jordan or LeBron James: NBA legend Shawn Kemp names his GOAT - Bolavip US

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For years, the never-ending <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> GOAT debate has given us some rather controversial lists and rankings. Some believe <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Jordan</a> is the best ever; others say it’s<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> LeBron James</a>, and others tend to go a little backwards.



Old-school NBA fans often lean towards the players from their era, and while it’s easy to understand where that bias is coming from, it’s hard to make an argument for those players sometimes.



At least, that’s what former NBA star Gilbert Arenas thinks, as he recently went on a full rant to diss those who still believe that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boston Celtics</a> legend Bill Russell is the greatest player in NBA history.



<h2>Gilbert Arenas Mocks Bill Russell Fans</h2>



“When people have Bill Russell in their top 10, I gotta question your basketball knowledge,” Arenas said. “I’m sorry. Because him and Wilt (Chamberlain) played in the same era. One averaged 50 and 30 rebounds, the other one averaged 16 and 20 rebounds.”



“Which means one was just a hustle player,” continued Arenas. “Like, you hustled against white folks. All you can score was 16 points a game. You couldn’t even break 20 and you want me to put you in the top 10? Everybody’s 5 f***ing 10 and there’s only eight teams and you’re playing against the White folks, right?”


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Truth be told, Bill Russell’s era was undeniably the least talented and least professional ever. He was a priviliged athlete, though, and the ultimate winner, so he shouldn’t be blamed for the poor competition he had to face.

Gilbert Arenas destroys Bill Russell's fans in an epic rant - Bolavip US

Gilbert Arenas destroys Bill Russell's fans in an epic rant

Throughout the course of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> history, just a handful of players have been able to leave a permanent mark on the game. We’re talking about the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Jordans</a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> of the game.



Of course, the San Antonio Spurs hope that first-overall pick Victor Wembanyama will join that list once it’s all said and done. But he’s just walking his first steps in the league.



However, even if he has yet to make his professional debut, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> legend Jerry West believes that the French star has a similar game to Bill Russell, which is a lot to say.



<h2>Jerry West Compares Victor Wembanyama To Bill Russell</h2>



“You rarely see someone that combines his brain and his ability,” West started. “Just watching him play, it’s an easy game for him to play, very easy and it never looks like he is working. If you watch really great players, it never looks like they’re working hard.”



“When you watch him defensively, he ruins games. He reminds me a little bit of a bigger Bill Russell with a big reach, coming from everywhere— any offensive player is gonna have to be really cautious about where he is because he’s gonna mess up some offenses that’s for sure,” West concluded.




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Well, if Wemby is able to win just one third of the championships Russell won, then he’ll already have a better career than most of his colleagues. Hopefully, he’ll stay healthy and live up to that unimaginable potential.

Draymond Green reveals the one thing Victor Wembanyama is already elite at

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Jerry West makes astonishing Victor Wembanyama comparison - Bolavip US

Jerry West makes astonishing Victor Wembanyama comparison

Due to the recent situation of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/michael-jordan-magic-johnson-and-paul-pierce-react-to-bill-bussells-passing-20220731-0019.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bill Russell’s passing</a>, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-the-2022-23-schedule-release-delay-may-provide-clues-about-big-ongoing-trades-20220808-0017.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">National Basketball Association</a> alongside theBasketball Players Association decided to make a unique tribute to the player with most <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rings-bill-russell-and-the-players-with-the-most-nba-championships-20220801-0008.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA Championship Rings</a> in the history of the sport.
This once-in-a-lifetimetribute only happened in some way when <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-demar-derozan-talks-michael-jordan-and-building-a-legacy-in-chicago-20220729-0007.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Michael Jordan</a> retired and some of the NBA Franchises decided to retire their No. 23 jersey to one of the greats, if not the greatest, player of all time. However, this is a diffent one because is aunanimousdecision.
Therefore, the NBA will retire No.6 jersey numbers from all the franchises. However, one of the best-selling jersey numbers is the LeBron James one with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-russell-westbrook-throws-the-lakers-under-the-bus-on-twitter-20220809-0006.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a>. Is this tribute going to change the four-time NBA Champion’s number?
<h2>Is LeBron Jamesjersey’s number going to change due to the No. 6 retirement?</h2>
Despite the announcement made by the NBA and NBPA states that the No.6 jersey is going to be retire throughtout the NBA franchises, the current NBA players who wear No.6 on their jersey will be “grandfathered”, according to Shams Charania of the Athletic.
This means LeBron James can keep the same jersey number on his back, unlesshe is willing to change it. In the mean time, there have been speculations about this, because he can go back to wear theNo.23 jersey. However, there are endorsments deals made that would prevent that from happening.
This situation alsos applies to other big NBA players such as Alex Caruso of the Chicago Bulls,Kristap Porzingis of the Washington Wizards and DeAndre Jordan of the Denver Nuggets. All of them can keep their jersey number, if they want to.
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NBA retires No. 6 jersey: What will happen to LeBron James' number?

NBA retires No. 6 jersey: What will happen to LeBron James' number? - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rings-bill-russell-and-the-players-with-the-most-nba-championships-20220801-0008.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bill Russell</a> had a special impact on <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/video-kareem-abdul-jabbar-settles-the-goat-debate-between-lebron-mj-and-himself-on-jimmy-fallon-20220622-0004.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kareem Abdul-Jabbar</a> that nobody knew the details of. In fact, there was a clear good friendship. However, Abdul-Jabbar wouldn’t talk about it before. Until Russell’s sudden death, the six-time <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-finals-history-by-year-complete-list-of-all-nba-finals-championship-games-20220601-0041.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA Champion</a> wrote a whole article about it after his first impression of it.
“My thoughts about Bill Russell passing away…. I am working on an deeper thought provoking article tonight as I process what just happened.”This message was posted on Abdul-Jabbar’s account right after Russell’s family posted about the 11-time NBA Champion’sdeath.
Aftwards, he appeared on several ESPN segments to talk about his stories about Russell and related topics. Therefore, here it is a small summary of Abdul-Jabbar’s special article on Bill Russell, his hero and his mentor.
<h2>Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s special article for Bill Russell</h2>
Jabbar’s article is divided by topics or special episodes between these two former ballers. “My First Meeting with Bill Russell Went South Fast”, “How Bill Russell Inspired Me as a Player”, “How Bill Russell Inspired Me as an Activist” and “Me and Bill as Old Men.”
All of these chapters are encounters between Jabbar and Russell in several points of their lives. “I first met Bill Russell in 1961, when I was a 14-year-old freshman at Power Memorial High School. I had just arrived at the school gym for team practice only to find the Boston Celtics practicing instead.”
In between, Jabbar wrote about how Russell inspired him to be a better basketball player and better person overall. “He anticipated their move like a chess master, than sprang into the air to block them before they knew what was happening. He didn’t play one-size-fits-all defense, he customized his defense to fit each player.”
“Bill was the most famous member of the summit, other than Jim Brown and Ali, but he never tried to leverage that to influence the rest of us. His approach was logical and dispassionate, encouraging us to listen with open minds to what Ali had to say.”If you want to the read the full article, it’s <a href="https://kareem.substack.com/p/the-bill-russell-i-knew-for-60-years?r=oo6y&amp;s=w&amp;utm_campaign=post&amp;utm_medium=web" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.

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NBA News: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's farewell to Bill Russell

NBA News: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's farewell to Bill Russell - Bolavip US

Winning isn’t always everything, and ring culture has hurt the NBA to some degree. You don’t have to be a champion to be among the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/ringless-best-nba-players-that-have-never-won-a-ring-20210625-0009.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">greatest players ever</a><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/ringless-best-nba-players-that-have-never-won-a-ring-20210625-0009.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">,</a> as you can tell by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/charles-barkley-names-warriors-next-most-prized-jewel-after-stephen-curry-It-is-not-draymond-green-20220729-0044.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Charles Barkley</a>, Patrick Ewing, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/allen-iverson-comes-clean-on-his-infamous-practice-rant-20220509-0012.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Allen Iverson</a>, and so many more.
But at the end of the day, most people will judge a player for hisrésumé, and what speaks louder than championships? Winning a ring is the endgame and ultimate goal, and just a handful of guys can achieve it.
As we know by now, no athlete won more championships in all four major leagues (NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL) than <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/how-many-finals-mvp-awards-and-championship-rings-have-bill-russell-won-20220731-0024.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bill Russell</a>. So, now that he’s passed away, we’ll let you know about the only guys that come close: the winningest players in NBA history.
<h2>NBA Rings: Players With The Most Championships</h2>
<h3>3. John Havlicek, Satch Sanders, K.C. Jones, &amp; Tom Heisonh – 8 Rings</h3>
<div style="text-align:center">
<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20220801_BUS_196740_boston_celtics.jpg_22993414_5f4bb84f.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> They were the NBA’s first dynasty- Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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The Boston Celtics won 11 rings in 13 years, so it’s only normal that most of the members of those teams make this list. In fact, Tom Heisonh and K.C. Jones won a ring in eight out of the nine seasons they played in the league.
Heisonh was a part of the1957, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965 championship teams, while Jones joined them later and won in1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966.
Satch Sanders followed by winning in1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969, while John Havlicek became one of the greatest players of all time and helped them win in1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969, 1974, 1976. Two of those rings came in the post-Bill Russell ea.
<h3>2. Sam Jones – 10 Rings</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20220801_BUS_196740_sam_jones.jpg_22993414_36b1e4b2.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> An underrated legend- Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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Most people talk about Bill Russell and for very good reasons, but if Michael Jordan had Scottie Pippen, then Russell had Sam Jones. The Celtics would’ve been as dominant if he wasn’t there as well.
Jones averaged 17.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game through his 12-year career. He was a master in the clutch and often took his game up a notch in the playoffs, carrying the offense while Russell anchored the defense.
<h3>1. Bill Russell – 11 Rings</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20220801_BUS_196740_bill_russell_x1x.jpg_22993414_2336ba17.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> The ultimate champion – Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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The man, the legend. Bill Russell was a gifted athlete who literally jumped over his own teammates to swat shots. Considered the greatest defender of all time, he could lock down the glass like no other, then push the break by himself, and then dunk over two people from the free-throw line.
Russell was a winner on and off the court, an example and a leader for minorities. He also had one of the first ‘star’ contracts in the NBA, so he was also a pioneer in that regard. Winner of 11 rings in 13 seasons, Russell’s résumé will never be topped.

NBA Rings: Bill Russell and the players with the most NBA championships

NBA Rings: Bill Russell and the players with the most NBA championships - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/bill-russell-my-life-my-may-how-to-watch-the-celtics-icon-documentary-20220731-0012.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bill Russell</a>marked an era in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-2022-2023-when-does-the-next-season-start-20220617-0002.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA</a> during his 13-season run with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/boston-celtics-nba-championships-list-by-year-of-all-the-titles-won-by-the-celtics-20220601-0050.html?activate-overlay=true" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boston Celtics</a>. His best contributions were off the court, however Russell was the first Black superstar of theleague. In fact, one of his on-court nicknames is “The Secretary of Defense”for his outstanding defensive skills.
His legacy has been unquestionable that the league took onlysix years after his retirement to inducthimto the NBA Hall of Fame. If that wasn’t enough, the five-time NBA Most Valuable Player award winner had his number six Celtics’ jersey retired three years after his retirement.
However, the question still remains. Bill Russell have won many individual awards with the Boston Celtics. But this main purpose of this article is to clarify how many NBA Finals MVP awardsand how many NBA Championship rings have the Celtics’ legend won.
<h2>How many NBA Championship Rings have Bill Russell won?</h2>
Bill Russell played for 13straight seasons in the NBA. During that time, Russell was a Boston Celtics player who made it to the NBA Finals 12times. In fact, Russell clinched 11 NBA Championship Rings with the Boston Celtics. Therefore, he is the NBA player with most NBA Championship Rings ever. A record that hasn’t been near close to be broken.
<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Year</td>
<td>NBA Champion</td>
<td>Rivals</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1957</td>
<td>Boston Celtics</td>
<td>St. Louis Hawks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1959</td>
<td>Boston Celtics</td>
<td>Minneapolis Lakers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1960</td>
<td>Boston Celtics</td>
<td>St. Louis Hawks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1961</td>
<td>Boston Celtics</td>
<td>St. Louis Hawks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1962</td>
<td>Boston Celtics</td>
<td>Los Angeles Lakers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1963</td>
<td>Boston Celtics</td>
<td>Los Angeles Lakers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1964</td>
<td>Boston Celtics</td>
<td>San Francisco Warriors</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1965</td>
<td>Boston Celtics</td>
<td>Los Angeles Lakers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1966</td>
<td>Boston Celtics</td>
<td>Los Angeles Lakers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1968</td>
<td>Boston Celtics</td>
<td>Los Angeles Lakers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1969</td>
<td>Boston Celtics</td>
<td>Los Angeles Lakers</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2>How many NBA Finals MVP awards have Bill Rusell won?</h2>
As said before, Bill Russell played 12 NBA Finals in his 13 NBA-season career. However, there wasn’t any award to name the most outstanding player for that particular game series. Therefore, the NBA decided to introduce this award for the 1969 NBA Finals when Russell alongside the Celtics won the NBA Championship. But the award winner was Los Angeles Lakers’ player Jerry West.
Therefore, years later in 2009, the NBA decided to change the name of this award to Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP award to honor Russell’s11-time NBA Championship legacy. Also, in the llast 2022 NBA Finals when <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-finals-mvp-complete-list-of-all-most-valuable-players-by-year-20220614-0037.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stephen Curry</a> finally was awarded with it, Rusell himself congratulate him.
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How many Finals MVP awards and Championship Rings have Bill Russell won?

How many Finals MVP awards and Championship Rings have Bill Russell won? - Bolavip US

There is no doubt that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/bill-russell-went-on-to-immortality-20220731-0011.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bill Russell </a>left a huge legacy in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-2022-2023-when-does-the-next-season-start-20220617-0002.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA</a>, both on and off the court. The 6-foot-10 center was one of the first big men to play in the league for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-analyst-reveals-how-the-celtics-could-land-kevin-durant-now-20220729-0010.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boston Celtics.</a> With great dominance andathleticism, Russell proved that Black players should be the backbone of the league’s success.
Alongside many huge athletes like Muhammad Ali, Jim Brown and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar were eagered to make an impact about social injustice to Black people, ongoing war situations and many social causes regarding racism.
That’s why many NBA players especially Black know the huge relevance Russell had in the league at that time. Therefore, many Black starts like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson and many more nowadays were able to play in the NBA as big stars.
<h2>NBA legends and stars react to Bill Russell’s passing</h2>
Bill Russell’s family posted an announcement early on Sunday, July 31 about his passing. Since then, social media was flooded with NBA stars, Hall-of-famers adressing this delicate situation, including Michael Jordan as well as Paul Pierce and Magic Johnson. Also, current Celtics’ players like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown posted about it.
“Bill Russell, was a pioneer – as a player, as an champion, as the NBA’s first Black head coach and as an activist. He paved the way and set an example for every Black player came into the league after him, including me. The world has lost a legend. My condolences to his family and may he rest in peace.”Michael Jordan on Russell’s passing, according toShams Charania, NBA insider for the Athletic.
Another of the many NBA former players who paid respects to Russell was Magic Johnson. He posted 6 tweets describing the importance Bill Russell had on him. “Bill Russell was my idol. I looked up to him on the court and off. His success on the court was undeniable; he was dominate and great, winning 11 NBA championships. Off the court, Bill Russell paved the way for guys like me.”
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Bill Russell was my idol. I looked up to him on the court and off. His success on the court was undeniable; he was dominate and great, winning 11 NBA championships. Off the court, Bill Russell paved the way for guys like me. <a href="https://t.co/ZMIrEx8Tne">pic.twitter.com/ZMIrEx8Tne</a>
 — Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/MagicJohnson/status/1553808631367208960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2022</a> </blockquote></div>
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<div> Paul Pierce, one of the most beloved Boston Celtics’ player also tweeted about Rusell’s death. The 10-time All-Star made a two-tweet tribute to the Celtics legend thanking him for his work in and outside of the court. Also, he mentioned one time when he sat down with him to listen to his stories. </div>
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I’ll never forget this day we was like kids sitting around a camp fire listening to your stories <a href="https://t.co/ZX3DDPRAwt">pic.twitter.com/ZX3DDPRAwt</a>
 — Paul Pierce (@paulpierce34) <a href="https://twitter.com/paulpierce34/status/1553801003220303873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2022</a> </blockquote></div>
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<div> Current Boston Celtics player’s like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown also posted about Russell’s death on their Twitter accounts. “RIP to one of the greatest athletes ever”, mentioned Brown, while Tatum posted “Than you for everything! RIP legend.” </div>
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Rest In Peace ��thank you for paving the way and inspiring so many Today is a sad day but also great day to celebrate his legacy and what he stood for �� <a href="https://t.co/kvDaIsjpGG">pic.twitter.com/kvDaIsjpGG</a>
 — Jaylen Brown (@FCHWPO) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCHWPO/status/1553796038661750784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2022</a> </blockquote></div>
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Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Paul Pierce and more react to Bill Russell's passing

Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Paul Pierce and more react to Bill Russell's passing - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/metta-world-peace-explais-why-bill-russell-is-the-goat-over-michael-jordan-20210413-0004.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bill Russell</a> has established himself in history as one of the greatest <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/lakers-legend-robert-horry-names-nba-untransferable-players-neither-lebron-james-nor-kevin-durant-20220714-0035.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">legends of the NBA</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-analyst-reveals-how-the-celtics-could-land-kevin-durant-now-20220729-0010.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Celtics</a>.He was a five-time Most Valuable Player, a 12-time All-Star Game selection and by 1980 was ranked as the greatest player in NBA history, following a vote by reporters.
During his career he won 11 championships in 13 years and the last ones as the first black coach in a professional league in the United States.The pillar of Boston’s team dynasty and Hall of Famer has been involved in the fight for civil rights for his fellow black Americans, and even marched alongside Martin Luther King Jr.
This morning his family released a statement on social media confirming the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/bill-russell-went-on-to-immortality-20220731-0011.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">icon’s death at the age of 88</a>. The cause of death has not yet been confirmed, but he was accompanied by his wife, Jeannine, at all times.“We hope each of us can find a new way to act or speak up with Bill’s uncompromising, dignified and always constructive commitment to principle. That would be one last, and lasting, win for our beloved #6”,the announcement ended.
<h2>‘Bill Russell: My Life, My Way’:How to watch the biographical documentary of the NBA giant</h2>
The biographical documentary of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/bill-russell-s-rings-how-many-does-he-have-20210308-0011.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Russell’s life</a>, narrated by himself, highlights the giant’s contributions to the world of sports and society, establishing himself as a key figure in the history of the country’s civil rights movement in the late 1950s and 1960s.
Now, two decades after the film’s release, the world must bid farewell to a legend. Russell left an indelible mark on the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/shaquille-o-neal-notes-the-skill-his-son-shareef-must-develop-to-be-the-new-giannis-antetokounmpo-20220730-0020.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA</a>, his team and society. That will never be forgotten.Thanks to producer Kendall Reid, the one-hour documentary, “Bill Russell: My Life, My Way,” is now available on YouTube. It first aired on April 17, 2000 and was produced by HBO Sports.
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‘Bill Russell: My Life, My Way’: How to watch the Celtics Icon Documentary

'Bill Russell: My Life, My Way': How to watch the Celtics Icon Documentary - Bolavip US

'Bill Russell: My Life, My Way': How to watch the Celtics Icon Documentary

This Saturday, July 31, 2022, painful news was known for the world of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/shaquille-o-neal-notes-the-skill-his-son-shareef-must-develop-to-be-the-new-giannis-antetokounmpo-20220730-0020.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NBA</a> basketball and especially for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-analyst-reveals-how-the-celtics-could-land-kevin-durant-now-20220729-0010.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boston Celtics</a>, since one of the most emblematic players in its history has gone on to immortality. The multi-champion center in the Massachusetts franchise, Bill Russell, passed today to immortality.
In the official twitter account of the<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/celtics-icon-not-sure-trading-for-kevin-durant-is-whats-best-for-boston-20220728-0031.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boston Celtics</a> leyend, the sad news was confirmed: “Bill Russell, the most prolific winner in American sports history, passed away peacefully today at age 88, with his wife, Jeannine, by his side. Arrangements for his memorial service will be announced soon.”
At the moment the causes of Bill Russell‘s death are unknown, although more details will surely be known in the coming hours. With him goes a legend not only of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-news-jayson-tatum-reacts-to-the-kevin-durant-rumors-20220727-0005.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boston Celtics</a> team, but of all American sports. There will surely be a tribute to the center by the Massachusetts franchise.
<h2>Who was Bill Russell?</h2>
The name of Bill Russell has transcended borders, so much so that there is no basketball fan in the world who has not heard of him. He was the most prolific athlete in the history of American sports, winning no less than 11 NBA titles, all of them with the team in which he played his entire playing career, the Boston Celtics.
During the 1960s, the Massachusetts franchise was widely dominant in the NBA, winning practically all the titles of the decade (they only did not win in 1967, the year in which the champions were the Philadelphia 76ers), also fulfilling in the last three years of their race the dual role of player/coach.
Russell was a very complete player, but he stood out above all for his defensive strength. He was one of the few who could stop the fury of the early years of another legend like Wilt Chamberlain. Many specialists point out that, if that statistic had existed in those years, he would surely be one of the greatest blockers in history.
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An announcement… <a href="https://t.co/KMJ7pG4R5Z">pic.twitter.com/KMJ7pG4R5Z</a>
 — TheBillRussell (@RealBillRussell) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealBillRussell/status/1553790050839588865?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2022</a> </blockquote></div>
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Bill Russell to immortality: NBA and Boston Celtics legend dies at 88

Bill Russell to immortality: NBA and Boston Celtics legend dies at 88 - Bolavip US

Latest news from Bill Russell. Find out about all the news related to Bill Russell on bolavip.com/en