Celtics Icon Bill Russell Receives Arthur Ashe Courage Award At ESPYs

Boston Celtics icon Bill Russell received the Arthur Ashe Courage Award on Wednesday night at the 2019 ESPYs.

Russell, 85, is an example of everything the award signifies. The honor is bestowed upon an individual who possesses “strength in the face of adversity, courage in the face of peril and willingness to stand up for their beliefs no matter the cost.”

Russell fought for what he believed in throughout his entire, no matter how difficult and unjust the circumstances were. He received a standing ovation following the presentation of the honor.

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Kobe Bryant presented the award, calling Russell a mentor for not only him, but everyone in the building.