Bill Russell Man of Valor

Bill Russell will always be remembered in Boston sports history as the basketball superstar who was handpicked by Red Auerbach -- first to be the anchor of the Celtics dynasty run as the center on so many wonderful teams; and then to be Red's successor as coach of the Celtics.  Growing up in the Boston area when Havlicek Stole The Ball, I always knew that Russ would outdual Wilt Chamberlain or Nate Thurmond or any other opponent for that matter.  

It will be great to see a permanent representation of Russell's impact on the area in the form of a statue. (Click on link in title to this post). I'd like to see Red's sculpture moved from Quincy Market to be next to Russell's -- near the old Garden. 

The USF Dons team with Russell and KC Jones as teammates must have been something!

Bill Russell's accomplishments are legend.  He is most deserving of the Medal of Honor recognition.

Looking out for family

Great to see that the Celtics alums pulled together to help out a teammate.  Which reminds me.  If you haven't read Teammates by David Halberstam and you really want to get ready for Grapefruit League action find the book asap.  You won't be able to put it down. 

True Grit

Nice to see one of the most talented and dedicated players to ever wear a Boston uniform return to New England as the manager of the Brockton Rox.  Here's a trivia question:

Who was the left fielder for the LA Dodgers when Hank Aaron broke Babe Ruth's career home run record? 

Answer:  Who was NOT the left fielder!  The pitcher was Al Downing and the left fielder for the Dodgers was Bill Buckner!

For the love of the game

Here's a story that will inspire.  Enjoy!
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2010/05/06/a_senior_on_the_mound/?page=1

And the young shall lead us

Here's a fantastic story about a couple of 10 year old brothers who have embarked on an impressive project regarding the Negro Baseball League. It's great to read a story in which our young people take an active interest in learning about the injustices suffered by preceding generations. These two young boys are teaching us all an important lesson. A nice way to start the New Year. http://www.boston.com/yourtown/news/brookline/2010/01/brookline_twins_10_reach_out_t.html

50 Years Ago: Congratulations Pumpsie

A long time coming -- wicked long. In fact, 12 years after Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier, in 1959 Elijah "Pumpsie" Green joined the Boston Red Sox. Here's an interview with Pumpsie reflecting on his experience: http://www.nesn.com/2009/07/pumpsie-green-content-with-his-red-sox-legacy.html?ccrm

I wonder whether Jed Lowrey knows the significance of the number he wears as the current Red Sox shortshop. In my mind, #12 for the Sox belongs to a shortstop from 50 years ago -- Pumpsie Green.

An American Hero

Here's a fascinating interview conducted in 1964 with Jackie Robinson. http://archives.cbc.ca/sports/baseball/clips/15914/