The Latest Breaking News from Adam Silver

Basketball legend Bill Russell is one of those rare giants who is lionized for trailblazing in two spheres of public life: sports and civil rights.

HARTFORD, Conn. — Brittney Griner stared blankly from behind white bars as the ruling was translated for her. Her eyes were empty and when they did shift focus it was only downward.

While the Mercury star was found guilty of drug smuggling and sentenced to nine years by a Russian court, her teammates remain focused on bringing Griner home.

The former Lakers superstar appeals to commissioner Adam Silver to give the Celtics legend a permanent honor.

Some legacies are too important to leave alone, to trust that society will properly cherish and regularly celebrate them. They require special attention and direct action to ensure memories don’t fade as time passes.

The Houston Rockets, along with representatives including current and former players, are paying respect to Bill Russell. “Rest In Peace to a true legend of the game,” the team wrote.

Russell marched with Martin Luther King Jr., supported Muhammad Ali and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama. The centerpiece of the Boston Celtics dynasty that won 11 championships in 13 years, Russell earned his last two NBA titles as a player-coach — the first…

The Bulls legend paid his respects to Russell’s legacy, calling him a pioneer: “He paved the way.”

The NBA great Bill Russell has died at age 88