It's true that Russell played with a lot of great players, including Bob
Cousy, Bill Sharman and Tommy Heinsohn. But the Boston Celtics
were mediocre before he arrived, and lousy after he left. That's why Russell,
while far from the most talented or dominant player in NBA history, was its
greatest winner. He defended. He rebounded. And, more than anything, he led. The
result? Eleven championships in 13 seasons, a feat unmatched in major American
sport.
Cousy, Bill Sharman and Tommy Heinsohn. But the Boston Celtics
were mediocre before he arrived, and lousy after he left. That's why Russell,
while far from the most talented or dominant player in NBA history, was its
greatest winner. He defended. He rebounded. And, more than anything, he led. The
result? Eleven championships in 13 seasons, a feat unmatched in major American
sport.