Celebrities, athletes and politicians pay tribute to NBA Hall of Famer Bill Russell, who has died at the age of 88, his family announced on Sunday.
Russell passed away peacefully at home with his wife Jeanine by his side, his family announced on Twitter.
Former President Barack Obama, Dr. Bernice King and Magic Johnson were among those who responded to news of the 11-time NBA champion’s death.
“Today we lost a giant. As great as Bill Russell was, his legacy is far greater – both as a player and as a person,” Obama said in a statement on Twitter. “I learned so much from the way he played, the way he trained and the way he lived his life. Michelle and I send our love to Bill’s family and everyone who admired him.”
The Boston Celtics legend is “the greatest champion in all sports,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement.
NBA great Patrick Ewing with NBA Hall of Famers Julius Irving and Bill Russell in Game 3 of the NBA Finals in Cleveland, June 12, 2007.
Amy Sancetta/`, file
Here’s a look at how other celebrity fans, athletes and more are mourning Russell’s passing:
New York Knicks legend Patrick Ewing
Patrick Ewing, the current head coach of Georgetown men’s basketball, tweeted: “The world has lost a legend with the death of Bill Russell. His impact on basketball and society will not be forgotten.”
Former NBA champion Paul Pierce
Former Boston Celtics player Paul Pierce said Russell was a “pioneer” and thanked him for “setting the bar” and his “kind words of wisdom”.
Los Angeles Lakers icon Magic Johnson
NBA legend Magic Johnson wrote that Russell was his “idol”.
“I looked up to him on and off the pitch. His success on the pitch was undeniable; he was that [dominant] and great.”
Former NBA players Bill Russell and Earvin “Magic” Johnson Jr. are honored during the 2017 NBA All-Star Game in New Orleans, Louisiana February 19, 2017.
Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images, FILE
Lawyer and Minister Dr. Bernice King
dr Bernice King, daughter of civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr., with whom Russell marched at the March on Washington, said he “surpassed the sport in influencing our national and global landscape. A champion in many ways.”
The Boston Celtics
Russell played with the Boston Celtics in the 1950s and 1960s and won 11 championships as a player and two as a coach with the team.
The team honored the legend, saying he was a “champion like no other in team sport history” and revolutionized the game of basketball.
Comedian John Stewart
“Bill Russell was one of the kindest, most thoughtful people I’ve ever met. Once he got a call out of the blue because he thought I looked sad on TV…the best encouragement of my life. RIP.”
Former Grand Slam champion Billie Jean King
“Bill Russell was an active athlete, one of a kind in a generation, who made everything around him better. He had a career filled with firsts and was a trailblazer for many. I’ve admired him all my life and he’s had a huge impact on my career. He was the ultimate leader, the ultimate team player and the ultimate champion,” the tennis legend wrote.
GMA host Robin Roberts
“So sad to hear of the passing of one of our greats… Sending love and condolences to the Russell family.”
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