NBA History | Bill Russell's Career

Bill Russell's legendary career

Bill Russell was a champion from his rookie season until he retired from the Celtics.

The dominance of Bill Russell's Celtics

The Celtics had never been champions before Bill Russell arrived in 1956. By the time he retired in 1969, they'd won 11 rings in 13 seasons.

NBA 75th Anniversary Team: Bill Russell

Check out the top plays from Bill Russell's career!

Barrier Breakers: Bill Russell

GameTime looks into one of the NBA's greatest champions and highlights Bill Russell's pioneering impact on the game.

Celtics built dynasty around Russell's defense

In an era known for high scores and blistering pace, it was Bill Russell's revolutionary defense that changed Boston – and the NBA – forever.

1963 All-Star Game MVP: Russell's favorite trophy

Bill Russell explains to Bill Simmons in the show Mr. Russells House his favorite trophy from his NBA career.

Bill Russell receives standing ovation by Boston crowd

Bill Russell receives standing ovation from the Boston crowd.

75 Stories: Bill Russell

Bill Russell was an 11-time NBA champion and 12-time All-Star, but his impact went far beyond the basketball court as he fought for civil rights and social justice.

Celtics' Dynasty Begins

Bill Russell wins his first of eight straight NBA championships.

1965: Bill Russell's MVP season

Take a look back at some great plays from Bill Russell's fifth and final MVP season.

Obama praises Russell on 2nd HOF induction

Former President Barack Obama congratulates Bill Russell on his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as a head coach. As a player-coach, Russell led the Boston Celtics to the 1968 NBA championship, becoming the first African-American head coach to win an NBA title. Russell becomes the fifth Hall of Famer to be inducted as both a player and a coach.