NEW YORK — The No. 6 worn by late Boston Celtics Hall of Famer Bill Russell will be retired for good in the NBA.
The league announced the move on Thursday.
“Bill Russell’s unparalleled success on the court and pioneering civil rights activism deserve to be honored in a unique and historic way,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. “The permanent retirement of his No. 6 on all NBA teams ensures that Bill’s transcendent career will always be recognized.”
Russell will be the first player to have his number retired in the NBA.
“This is a momentous honor reserved for one of the greatest champions to ever play the game,” said NBPA Executive Director Tamika Tremaglio. “Bill’s actions on and off the court throughout his life helped improve generations of players and for that, we are eternally grateful. We are proud to continue to celebrate his life and legacy around the league.” .
The NBA will also honor Russell during the 2022-23 season.
All players will wear a commemorative patch on the right shoulder of their jerseys, and each NBA court will display a shamrock logo with the number 6 next to the scorer’s table. The Celtics will have a separate and unique recognition for him on their uniforms, which will be announced soon, according to the league.
Russell wore No. 6 throughout his 13-season career from 1956 to 1969, and no NBA team will ever reissue either player.
Players currently wearing #6 will be grandfathered.
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