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First NBA Game
Bill Russell entered the NBA for the Boston Celtics on December 22, 1956. This day marks the beginning of Russell's career that impacted both sports and society. Russell's and the Celtics' statistics for this game can be found in the link. http://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/195612220BOS.html -
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Bill Russell: Breaking the Racial Barrier
Bill Russell's achievements led to him breaking down the racial barrier in the NBA. -
March on Washington
Bill Russell attended the March on Washington where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech. A peaceful protest for equality, the March was momentous in bringing about change toward African Americans in society. Since Russell was a successful sports star at the time, "his presence helped some understand the need for equality that extended from buses to restaurant counters all the way to the basketball court" (Helin). -
First African American Head Coach
In 1966, Bill Russell became the first African American head coach in any professional sports league. This appointment came during the violent yet influential civil rights era. Russell's position led the way for other African Americans and other people of color to become coaches. -
Hall of Fame Induction
In 1975, Bill Russell was inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame. In his career, he won a total of 11 NBA championships in 13 seasons and was a member of the All-Star team 12 times. He won the MVP award 5 times throughout his career and spoke for equality while he played. -
Bill Russell Video
Inside the NBA: Bill Russell VIDEO (http://www.nba.com/video/2017/02/14/20170213-inside-nba-bill-russell-feature) Timeline date is insignificant. -
Presidential Medal of Honor
President Obama reward Bill Russell with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2011. This medal "is presented to people who have made important contributions to U.S. national security, world peace, culture or other significant public or private endeavors" (ESPN). Russell was awarded this honor because of his achievements on the basketball court and his advocacy of civil rights and equality.
