Bill Russell Five NBA MVPs

Lore & Background

Russell was a five-time NBA Most Valuable Player and a 12-time NBA All-Star. He led the NBA in rebounds four times and had a dozen consecutive seasons of 1,000 or more rebounds. He remains second all-time in both total rebounds and rebounds per game.

In Their Own Story

The arena hums with tension as the clock winds down on a crucial game in Boston. Russell stands at the free-throw line, sweat dripping from his brow, eyes locked on the rim. He doesn't just see the basket; he sees the championship hanging in the balance. With a deep breath, he rises, releases the ball, and watches it swish through the net. The crowd erupts, but Russell simply turns back to his teammates, already planning the next defensive stop that will secure another title.

Reader's Guide

Russell's defensive prowess, shot-blocking, and leadership were key to the Celtics' dominance. He served as player-coach from 1966 to 1969, becoming the first black NBA coach to win a championship.

Did You Know?

• Russell was traded to the Celtics after being drafted second overall by the St. Louis Hawks in 1956.
• He won an NCAA championship in 1955 and 1956 with the San Francisco Dons and captained the gold medal-winning U.S. team at the 1956 Olympics.
• The NBA Finals MVP Award was renamed in his honor in 2009.
• Russell was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2011.