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BOSTON (WBZNewsRadio) - Netflix is giving fans a glimpse at their upcoming documentary called "Bill Russell Legend." On Wednesday the streaming service released the trailer for the film, set to be released on February 8th.
The documentary will take a deep dive into the life, accomplishments and legacy of the NBA legend and civil rights activist. The trailer teases viewers with other NBA greats of both today and yesterday remembering Russell, including Larry Bird, Isiah Thomas, Earvin "Magic" Johnson, and Jayson Tatum.
"You know what's on his hands?" former NBA star Jalen Rose says in the trailer. "More rings than fingers."
The film was actually made in collaboration with Russell before his death and will showcase Russell's own words, including the last interview he gave.
Russell passed away in July of 2022 at 88 years old. In October, the Celtics revealed new uniforms honoring Russell.
Russell began his career at the University of San Francisco, where he helped his team win 56 straight victories and two NCAA titles. In 1956, he was chosen by the St. louis Hawks as the second overall pick, but was traded to the Boston Celtics the very same day. He would go on to lead the Celtics to 11 championships.
Off the basketball court, Russell was a champion for Black rights. He marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and spoke out against segregation. His relationship with the city of Boston was a complicated one.
In 2011, then-President Barack Obama awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
"More than any athlete of his era, Bill Russell came to define the word winner," Obama said while presenting Russell with the award. "Bill Russell the man is someone who stood up for the rights and dignity of all men."
WBZ's Jim MacKay (@JimMacKayOnAir) reports
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