Bill Russell, one of the most accomplished NBA basketball players and coaches in history, has died.
A cause of death was not provided in a statement posted on his official Twitter account. However, it said that Russell died with his wife, Jeannine, by his side.
At 6 foot 10 inches, Russell played center for the Boston Celtics. He helped the team win 11 NBA titles between 1957-1969.
Russell was named a player-coach in 1966, making him the first African American man to lead a major U.S. sports team.
Breaking down racial barriers was important for Russell.
"Bill called out injustices with an unforgiving candor that he intended would disrupt the status quo," the statement announcing his death says.
Memorial services are pending. Russell was 88 years old.
