Photo: Singer-athlete Paul Robeson, 1963 (AP Photo) / Boston Celtics legend Bill Russell, May 17, 2011. (AP Photo/Josh Reynolds) / Heavyweight boxing champion Muhammad Ali , Dec. 3, 2009 (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin, File)
Bill Russell is considered one of the greatest Basketball players. He led the Boston Celtics to an unprecedented 11 championships in 13 seasons. He is also known for being one of the smartest players–on and off the court. He was known for speaking out and speaking his mind. One of those incidents happened in Kentucky. His refusal to stay and play in a city that would not let the Black players eat at a local restaurant led to the Boston Celtics boycott game.
The Hall of Famer made a decision that caused waves throughout the National Basketball League.
Russell’s team, the Celtics, was in Lexington, Kentucky, for a game when his teammates Satch Sanders and Sam Jones were refused service at the hotel coffee shop. Another played also tried and he too was turned away. When told Russell he announced to coach Red Auerbach he was leaving, surely not staying to play.
“When I heard that, I called the airline and booked a ticket to leave,” said Russell, who added he knew he just had to get out of that town. Auerbach tried to smooth over the incident by arranging a dinner between the players and the hotel owner. Russell declines. “Who the hell is he,” he asked of the hotel owner. Russell and the other players flew out, abandoning the game.
Bill Russell received Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama
Bill Russell on receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom
