Image Credits - Marca
Bill Russell’s legacy is intertwined with the Boston Celtics. The NBA legend died at the age of 88 and James Harden paid his tribute.
There was absolutely no other champion like him in basketball. Bill Russell, a Hall of Famer, was a five-time MVP and an 11-time NBA champion. He was instrumental in 11 of the Celtics’ 17 titles. His tragic death shocked the NBA community.
Russell received the lifetime achievement award in 2017. Boston Celtics player Jayson Tatum, who attempted to follow in Russell’s footsteps this season, made a determined effort to lead the Celtics to another championship. Tatum is among numerous past and current NBA players responding to Bill Russell’s passing.
Russell’s death announcement ensured that his admirers knew he died in peace. When he died, his wife was by his side. He was a man who set the path for future generations of NBA players. Russell was also the first African-American to coach a professional sports club in America.
Philadelphia 76ers star James Harden shared to tweet to show his respect for the late Bill Russell.
“RIP to the Legend Bill Russell”, wrote Harden on Twitter.
Harden, who was traded to Philadelphia from Brooklyn at the trade deadline, declined the player option on the final year of his contract worth $47 million in 2022-23.
He became a free agent, and a few weeks ago, signed a two-year $68.6 million with the Sixers. This season, he will make $33 million, a $12 million pay cut from what he could’ve made had he exercised his player option. The salary reduction allowed the Sixers to sign P.J. Tucker and Danuel House in free agency.
Harden is on record saying he was willing to do what it took, including a pay cut, to help put the Sixers in a better position to win a championship.
Harden can also become a free agent after the 2023-24 season and negotiate a new contract worth up to $46.5 million. According to ESPN, “there have been suspicions around the league about whether there’s a handshake deal on a future contract (with the Sixers) – which would violate collective bargaining regulations.” According to the sports outlet, Sixers head of basketball operations, Daryl Morey, has responded to queries from league counsel.
Read More:
Follow our dedicated NBA page for instant NBA news and updates