Russell, Bill
1934-2022 · Contribution: 1966-1969
Basketball player and coach
First Black head coach in NBA history; first Black coach to win an NBA championship
Portraits are AI-generated interpretations, not photographs.
Quick facts
- Born
- 1934, Monroe, Louisiana
- Active since
- 1956
- Category
- Sports & Athletics
- Best known for
- First Black head coach in NBA history
Impact on the world
Russell was the ultimate winner in team sports and then broke the coaching color barrier at the highest level, all while using his platform to fight for civil rights.
Sources
- Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
1 more sources and references are available to members.
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Robinson, Frank
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First Black manager in Major League Baseball history; only player to win MVP in both leagues