Bill Russell
William Felton "Bill" Russell was a legendary American professional basketball player who played as a center for the Boston Celtics of the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1956 to 1969, widely regarded as one of the greatest in NBA history. Born on February 12, 1934, in Monroe, Louisiana, Russell's impact on the game goes beyond statistics. He played the center position for the Boston Celtics from 1956 to 1969, winning an astonishing 11 NBA championships in 13 seasons. Renowned for his defensive prowess, leadership, and shot-blocking abilities, Russell was a five-time NBA Most Valuable Player and a 12-time NBA All-Star. After retiring as a player, he transitioned to coaching, becoming the NBA's first African American head coach. Russell continued to influence the game, leaving an indelible mark on basketball both on and off the court.
Acting
- 2025Celtics CitySelf9 ep.
- 2023Bill Russell: LegendSelf2 ep.
- 2018Shut Up and DribbleSelf - NBA Hall of Famer1 ep.
- 2018Basketball: A Love StorySelf6 ep.
- 2017Celtics/Lakers: Best of EnemiesSelf3 ep.
- 2016O.J.: Made in AmericaSelf (archive footage)1 ep.
- 2005IconoclastsSelf1 ep.
- 1978The White ShadowBill Russell1 ep.
- 1970The Flip Wilson ShowSelf1 ep.
Guest appearances
- 2018Shut Up and DribbleSelf - NBA Hall of Famer1 ep.
- 2018Basketball: A Love StorySelf5 ep.
- 2016O.J.: Made in AmericaSelf (archive footage)1 ep.
- 2005IconoclastsSelf1 ep.
- 1986Miami ViceJudge Roger Ferguson1 ep.
- 1981The White ShadowBill Russell1 ep.
- 1979Saturday Night LiveSelf - Host1 ep.
- 1973The Tonight Show Starring Johnny CarsonSelf2 ep.
- 1974The Mike Douglas ShowSelf1 ep.
- 1972The Flip Wilson ShowSelf1 ep.
- 1972The Dick Cavett ShowSelf - Guest1 ep.
- 1971Rowan & Martin's Laugh-InSelf1 ep.
- 1968The Merv Griffin ShowSelf1 ep.
Also known as: William F. Russell · William Felton Russell · William Felton "Bill" Russell