Bill Russell Was An Inspiration To Patriots Veterans

FOXBOROUGH, MA — Boston Celtics legend Bill Russell died on Sunday at 88. Russell is undoubtedly one of the greatest athletes of modern time, but it wasn't only his sports feats that inspired people across the country.

Russell's lasting legacy will be both as a winner and as a trailblazer for Black athletes to speak out about racial and social injustices.

Veteran Patriots players Devin McCourty and Matthew Slater spoke to members of the media this week about taking inspiration from Russell, both on and off the field.

McCourty said that he only initially knew about Bill Russell the winner, but not about the man, until he came to New England.

"When I think of Bill Russell I don't think of, necessarily, the championships or the Celtics and the winning, which I think is a legacy that speaks for itself. I think of what he did for Black athletes," said Slater.

"I'm a beneficiary of the actions of men and women like Bill Russell, who are willing to step out on the limb and advocate for Black athletes and Black Americans, and really push for change and push for equality."

"His willingness and vulnerability to be very open about what he went through and wanting change," said McCourty. "As an athlete that gets to play in this area, I drew a lot of inspiration and motivation from how he viewed things and I think the road that he paved for Black athletes to be successful in this city and in sports in general."

Russell was indeed a winner and champion, perhaps the greatest.

As a basketball player, Russell was a two-time NCAA champion at the University of San Francisco and won 11 NBA titles as a player and coach with the Boston Celtics.

As a civil rights icon and outspoken voice for change and equal rights, Russell's legacy is just as strong.

President Barack Obama awarded Russell the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2011.

"Today, we lost a giant," Obama said in a statement. "As tall as Bill Russell stood, his legacy rises far higher — both as a player and as a person. Perhaps more than anyone else, Bill knew what it took to win and what it took to lead. On the court, he was the greatest champion in basketball history. Off of it, he was a civil rights trailblazer —marching with Dr. (Martin Luther) King and standing with Muhammad Ali."

"For decades, Bill endured insults and vandalism, but never let it stop him from speaking up for what's right. I learned so much from the way he played, the way he coached, and the way he lived his life," he continued.

A message posted on the family's social media accounts Sunday afternoon said that Russell died peacefully with his wife, Jeannine, by his side.

Read more: Ultimate Champion: Celtics Legend Bill Russell Dies At 88