The Boston Celtics are synonymous with Bill Russell’s legacy. The NBA icon passed away at the age of 88. There was undoubtedly no winner like him in the sport of basketball. Hall of Famer Bill Russell was a five-time MVP and an 11-time NBA champion. He is responsible for 11 of the 17 Celtics championships. His tragic passing away has left the NBA world in shock.?
Russell was also awarded the lifetime achievement award in 2017. Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum, who tried to follow in Russell’s footsteps this year gave a valiant effort to try and win another title for the Celtics. Tatum is among several NBA stars, past and present, to react to Bill Russell’s death.
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The announcement of Russell’s death made sure that his fans knew he was at peace when he died. His wife was at his side when he passed away. He was a man that paved the way for future generations of the NBA. Bill Russell was also the first person of African-American descent to coach a professional sports team in America.
Jayson Tatum, Magic Johnson, and James Harden react to the news of Bill Russell passing away
Fellow Celtic Tatum tweeted,?“Thank you for everything! R.I.P Legend”
Thank you for everything! R.I.P Legend 🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/tn2iGsArav
— Jayson Tatum (@jaytatum0) July 31, 2022
Magic Johnson and the Los Angeles Lakers joined Tatum in reacting to the dismal news. Moreover, James Harden also paid homage to the legendary basketball player.
Despite all of his achievements, he was so humble, a gentle giant, a very intelligent man, and used his voice and platform to fight for Black people. Since the day we met, he mentored me and shared advice.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) July 31, 2022
The definition of champion, on and off the court. Thank you for everything, Bill. pic.twitter.com/tB5nLoslSF
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) July 31, 2022
To be the greatest champion in your sport, to revolutionize the way the game is played, and to be a societal leader all at once seems unthinkable, but that is who Bill Russell was. (1/4) pic.twitter.com/K0Ue0hKiLs
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) July 31, 2022
RIP to the Legend Bill Russell
— James Harden (@JHarden13) July 31, 2022
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Bill Russell had plenty of records. Many of them would always remain untouched till today.?
NBA fandom reacts to losing one of its greats
ESPN Senior NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski and Marc J. Spears were the first to respond to this news. Spears tweeted out NBA Commissioner Adam Silver’s heartfelt message for Bill Russell. Silver’s press release was indicative of how much Bill Russell contributed to shaping the NBA.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver's statement on the passing of Bill Russell. pic.twitter.com/tOJvne0nZl
— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpears) July 31, 2022
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RIP to one of the greatest athletes ever
— Jaylen Brown (@FCHWPO) July 31, 2022
Adam Silver said,?”I cherished my friendship with Bill and was thrilled when he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom. I often called him Basketball’s Babe Ruth for how he transcended time. Bill was the ultimate winner and consummate teammate, and his influence on the NBA will be felt forever.”
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Additionally, Silver talked about how Bill Russell made up the DNA for the NBA. Russell was the ultimate winner and a trailblazer both on and off the court. He was a pioneer in American sports. His loss will be felt vastly and his impact will undoubtedly be cherished forever.?
