Adam Silver on how Bill Russell helped make the NBA a more socially-aware league
If you have ever wondered why the NBA has been a leader among pro sports leagues in fighting racism in recent years, it is the long imprint of Boston Celtics Hall of Fame big man Bill Russell on the league he helped make the global sports league it is today, according to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.
Longtime friend of the Celtics legend, Silver leaned on their friendship over the last three decades in his work with the league long before he was elevated to the role once held by David Stern. “I’ll just say to you that on important issues involving the league, particularly about race, I generally consulted with Bill,” said Silver in an interview with Sports Illustrated’s Howard Beck.
“He’s sort of the founding father of the modern NBA,” added the Commissioner. “And with that, I think he became the league’s DNA for our players to feel comfortable speaking out on societal issues.”
The Celtics released all 15 players for their all-time great Celtics list in honor of the league’s 75th-birthday celebrations. https://t.co/RmWfN3fGf3
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) April 28, 2023
“I would say a lot of the courage of the modern-day players, there’s a direct through line to Bill, against the whole shut up-and-dribble crowd,” Silver related.
“He recognized the value of the platform that was afforded him by being an MVP, NBA champion player.”
Be sure to check out the full interview here.
Listen to the “Celtics Lab” podcast on:
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3zBKQY6
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3GfUPFi
YouTube: https://bit.ly/3F9DvjQ
