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Bill Russell is the latest sports icon to be named the recipient of the Arthur Ashe Courage Award, with the Boston Celtics legend accepting the award at the2019 ESPY Awardsin California.
“Thank you for being a model, a mentor. Thank you for a laugh that will ring in our ears for years to come,” said Bryant.
Tori Kelly then took the stage and performed Mavis Staples’ “In Times Like These” in Russell’s honor.
Russell, 85, is a five-time NBA Most Valuable Player and a 12-time NBA All-Star,according to his NBA profile. Russell was center for the Boston Celtics from 1956 to 1969. During his final three seasons, Russell also served as the Celtics’ head coach. Russell was the NBA’s first black head coach.
Additionally, the former athlete is one of only seven players in history to win not only an NCAA Championship and an NBA Championship but also an Olympic gold medal. And in 2011, Russell received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from former PresidentBarack Obama.
The courage award is given annually to those who embody the spirit of namesake and tennis legend Arthur Ashe.
source: people.com
