Bill Russell’s No.6 Jersey Number Retired Throughout the NBA

Announcement of the NBA

A week ago, the NBA and NBPA announced that they will retire the Russell's iconic uniform number 6 troughout the league. With this decision they honor the life and legacy of 11-time NBA champion and civil rights pioneer Bill Russell who died last month. The former Hall of Famer is the first player to have his number retired across the league.

Tribute to Bill Russell

In addition to retiring Russell’s number, the NBA will pay tribute to the Boston Celtics’ legend throughout the coming season. Every NBA player will wear a "commemorative patch on the right shoulder of their jersey", and every NBA court will display a "clover-shaped logo with the No. 6 on the sideline". The Celtics will have a separate and unique recognition for him on their uniforms,set to be announced soon.

Russell’s jersey number, which he wore for his entire career from 1956-69, will not be issued again by any NBA team to any player. Players who currently wear the No. 6 will be allowed to keep it.

The career of Bill Russell

At his time, Russell was regarded as an ultimate winner and a model teammate. He transformed the game at the center position with his stunning athleticism and great defence. Bill won a record 11 NBA championships in 13 seasons and a gold medal with the U.S. Olympic Men’s Basketball Team in 1956.

NBA Finals MVP Award

In 2009 the "NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award" was named for him because he was so synonymous with success.

His Impact on the NBA

Russell’s impact on the NBA extended far beyond his playing achievements. In 1966, he was hired by the Celtics as the first Black head coach in the history of the NBA and major U.S. professional sports. As a coach, he guided the Celtics to back-to-back NBA championships in 1968 and 1969.

During and after his legendary basketball career, Russell stood for the values of equality, respect and inclusion. He marched for civil rights and was steadfast in his belief that all people should be treated with dignity. In 2010 Russell was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, for his athletic feats and lifelong commitment to social justice.