The Bill Simmons Podcast The Genius of Bill Russell (from The Book of Basketball 2.0)
Jul 31, 2022
Explore the extraordinary legacy of Bill Russell, a pioneer in sports and civil rights. Discover his incredible leadership and teamwork skills that transformed the NBA. Hear personal anecdotes that reveal his character, humor, and the challenges he faced as a black athlete in the 50s and 60s. Learn why he chose to walk away after his 11th title and his complex relationship with Boston. Russell's journey is both inspiring and thought-provoking, highlighting the significance of legacy in both sports and society.
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Russell's Resentment Towards Boston
- Bill Russell harbored resentment towards Boston, recalling the city's preference for hockey and their underestimation of the Celtics after Cousy's retirement.
- He also remembered the racist acts he endured and fans' deification of Larry Bird over him.
Russell's Health Scare
- During an interview, Bill Russell experienced a moment of breathlessness, alarming Simmons, but quickly recovered.
- They continued the interview for another 90 minutes, discussing various topics.
Dinner with Russell
- Bill Russell accepted Simmons and Hershey after realizing their basketball knowledge.
- However, he was annoyed when they praised Bob Pettit's 50-point game against an injured Russell.
