This is a word, a podcast from Slate. I'm your host, Jason Johnson. The NBA and the world

lost one of its greatest stars last week. Bill Russell, the former Boston Celtics player

in coach, died on Sunday at the age of 88. Russell's career in the NBA included an unmatched

run of championships as a player and a coach. But his legacy off the court as a tireless

voice for civil rights was even more impressive. Honoring the late Bill Russell, coming up on a

word with me, Jason Johnson, stay with us. Welcome to a word, a podcast about race and politics

and everything else. I'm your host, Jason Johnson. The NBA lost one of its greatest stars last week.

Bill Russell, the former Boston Celtics player and coach, died on Sunday at the age of 88.

On the court, Bill Russell was a superstar, winning an unmatched 11 championship rings.

Five most valuable player awards and 12 appearances in the All Star game. In 1966, he made history as

the first black coach, not just in the NBA, but in any major sports league. Off the court,

Russell became an important voice in the fight for civil rights, refusing to stay silent about

the racist abuse black players suffered at the hands of the public, the press, and even the fans

of the teams that they played for. He fought back with words and actions, speaking out when there

was a lot more at stake than the loss of an endorsement deal. That's something President Obama

recognized in 2011 when he honored Russell with the Medal of Freedom. Here's a clip.

More than any athlete of his era, Bill Russell came to define the word winner.

And yet, whenever someone looks up at all six, nine of Bill Russell, I just did. I always feel

small next to him and asks, are you a basketball player? Surprisingly, he gets this more than you

think. That's question. He says, no. He says, that's what I do. That's not what I am.

I'm not a basketball player. I am a man who plays basketball.

Bill Russell, the man is someone who stood up for the rights and dignity of all men.

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