William Felton "Bill" Russell was a legendary American professional basketball player who played as a center for the Boston Celtics of the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1956 to 1969, widely regarded as one of the greatest in NBA history. Born on February 12, 1934, in Monroe, Louisiana, Russell's impact on the game goes beyond statistics. He played the center position for the Boston Celtics from 1956 to 1969, winning an astonishing 11 NBA championships in 13 seasons.
Renowned for his defensive prowess, leadership, and shot-blocking abilities, Russell was a five-time NBA Most Valuable Player and a 12-time NBA All-Star. After retiring as a player, he transitioned to coaching, becoming the NBA's first African American head coach. Russell continued to influence the game, leaving an indelible mark on basketball both on and off the court.
Known For
Celtics City
Himself · (9 episodes)
2025
Bill Russell: Legend
Self · (2 episodes)
2023
Behind the Shield: The Power and Politics of the NFL
Self (archive footage)
2022
El otro Rey de Chicago
Self
2022
Shut Up and Dribble
Self - NBA Hall of Famer · (1 episode)
2018
Basketball: A Love Story
Self · (6 episodes)
2018
O.J.: Made in America
Self (archive footage) · (1 episode)
2016
O.J.: Made in America
Self (archive footage)
2016
Mr. Russell's House
2013
Uncle Drew: Chapter 2
Self
2012
Fathers of the Sport
Himself
2008
Iconoclasts
Self · (1 episode)
2005
History Rings True: Red Sox Opening Day Ring Ceremony
Self
2005
:03 from Gold
Self (archive footage)
2002
Jim Brown: All-American
Self
2002
Bill Russell: My Life, My Way
2000
The Journey of the African-American Athlete
Self
1996
Rickles... On the Loose
Self
1986
Bob Uecker's Wacky World of Sports
Self (archive footage)
1985
Miami Vice
Judge Roger Ferguson · (1 episode)
1984
On the Right Track
Robert
1981
The White Shadow
Bill Russell · (1 episode)
1978
Saturday Night Live
Self - Host · (1 episode)
1975
Goin' Back to Indiana
Self
1971
The Flip Wilson Show
Self · (1 episode)
1970
The Dick Cavett Show
Self - Guest · (1 episode)
1968
Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In
Self · (2 episodes)
1968
The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson
Self · (2 episodes)
1962
The Merv Griffin Show
Self · (1 episode)
1962
The Mike Douglas Show
Self · (1 episode)
1961