From NBA legend Bill Russell, Go Up for Glory is a basketball memoir that transcends time. First published in 1965, this narrative traces Russell’s childhood in segregated America and details the challenges he faced as a Black man, even when he was a celebrated NBA star. And while some progress has been made, this book serves as an urgent reminder of how far we still have to go in the fight for human rights and equality.
Author
Bill Russell
Bill Russell is a former Boston Celtics center who played from 1956 to 1969, on 11 championship teams. A member of the Basketball Hall of Fame, he was a five-time NBA MVP and an All Star in 12 of the 13 years he played; many regard him as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Russell was the Celtics’ player-coach for three years, becoming the first Black coach in professional North American sports, and the first to win a championship. In 2011, President Barack Obama awarded Russell the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his accomplishments on the court and in the Civil Rights Movement. Russell is one of seven players in history to win an NCAA Championship, an NBA Championship, and an Olympic gold medal.
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