As a youngster growing up in the 1960s, I idolized Bill Russell, Bob Cousy and the Celtics. They appeared to me the epitome of America; black and white stars playing together at the highest level. I didn't realize at the time Boston was a terribly racist city and Russell was a target for many fans of the team. Russell passed away on Saturday and his legacy will be enthusiastically celebrated by the city and its residents.
Russell was perhaps the first superstar in a team sport. Yes, Jackie Robinson was the first black to break the color barrier in baseball, but he was not a game changer as a player. Russell won 11 championships in 13 years as a player and coach of the Celtics. He also pushed the envelope in the movement for civil rights, including setting up an integrated basketball camp in Mississippi.
Bill Russell is an icon and was an iconoclast. I will always have fond memories of Mr. Russell and the Celtics. Rest in peace big guy.
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