If a knowledgeable basketball fan is asked who is the greatest of all time, or G.O.A.T, their answer will still be "subjective" and based on who they like the most. If this same fan was asked who is the greatest "winner" in basketball history, then the answer would be "objective", and everyone would say Bill Russell - PERIOD. There is simply no one even close.
For those that do not know, Bill Russell won two high school State Championships in California, two NCAA Championships, an Olympic gold medal, and 11 NBA Championships (in 13 seasons). In fact, within a one year period Bill Russell won an NCAA Championship, an Olympic gold medal, and his first NBA Championship.
Furthermore, Bill Russell is one of only two players in NBA history to win an NBA Championship as s "player/coach". As DJ Khaled says in his award winning song, "All I do is win win win no matter what". He must have been reading Bill Russell's thoughts and channelling them for his certified triple platinum single.
In Bill Russell's era there were great players with more skill offensively, only one more gifted athletically, and NONE with a greater drive to win. At that time Wilt Chamberlain was the NBA's "Goliath". Wilt averaged more than 40 ppg and 20 rpg during his first six professuonal seasons.
On the other hand, Bill Russell was the leagues "David". He fearlessly and single handedly challenged the mighty Goliath (Chamberlain) and came out victorious over and over. Believe it or not, one year Wilt Chamberlain averaged 50.4 ppg & 25.7 rpg, made first team All-Pro, but the Celtics won the title again, and Bill Russell was named the league MVP despite not being a first team All-Pro. That is how much respect the league had for Bull Russell a d his direct influence on the nottom lkne "winning".
In conclusion, Bill Russell was a GREAT athlete, teammate, and man. Also, Russell was an activist for the equal rights of all, and treated people like he wanted to be treated. He was fearless with his convictions, and there has never been a more consistent winner in basketball or all of sports. Sixteen (16) Championships during a 19 year period is simply amazing, and literally incomporable.
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