On Sunday, the basketball world was shocked and saddened when NBA legend Bill Russell died at age 88.
It came suddenly, as the Boston Celtics great has seemed very much alive and well despite his advanced age.
Russell helped put the NBA on the map in the late 1950s and 1960s by making defense a thing and leading the Celtics to 11 championships in his 13 seasons.
He was an intimidating shot-blocker and voracious rebounder, not to mention the centerpiece of Boston’s dynasty.
The majority of Russell’s titles were won against the Lakers, but it didn’t prevent team owner Jeanie Buss from paying tribute to him.
Needless to say, Russell’s passing is a gigantic loss for the sports world, as even Lakers fans have come to love and appreciate him over the years.
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Story originally appeared on LeBron Wire