Celtics great Bill Russell passes away at 88

Legendary Celtic Bill Russell has passed away at the age of 88, leaving behind an almost unfathomable legacy on and off the court.

Hall of Famer and legendary Boston Celtics big man Bill Russell has passed away at age 88, his family announced in a Twitter post. One of the winningest athletes in American sports history, Russell was also a titan of civil rights. He leaves behind an almost titanic memory of achievement and activism.

After winning two NCAA titles, Russell raised eleven banners with the Boston Celtics. In that time, he won five NBA MVP awards and played in twelve All-Star games. He went on to become the first black head coach in the Association and in North American men’s sports, winning two championships as a player-coach.