Boston renames bridge after Celtics legend Bill Russell

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NBA legend Bill Russell will forever be remembered as the city of Boston officially renamed the North Washington Street Bridge in his honor.

On Monday, current Celtics star Jaylen Brown helped unveil the new sign that will go above the bridge. Celtics co-owners Wyc Grousbeck and Steve Pagliuca accompanied Brown at the ceremony award the decorated champion and civil rights icon who transcended sports.

Bill Russell’s influence will forever be felt in the city of Boston 💚☘️

We are proud to announce that the North Washington Street Bridge will become the William Felton “Bill” Russell Bridge. pic.twitter.com/Nl48JTvPoz

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) October 21, 2024

Charlestown will now be connected to Boston’s West End and North End via the William Felton “Bill” Russell Bridge.

“Bill Russell goes beyond sports. I could go on and on about his resume. But his character, his demeanor, how he dealt with adversity, I think that speaks volumes, especially in a time like this,” Brown said.

“I think it’s very fitting that the bridge is named after him. Because a bridge brings people together.”

Russell, the centerpiece of the Boston Celtics dynasty that won 11 championships in 13 years, won his last two NBA titles as a player-coach – the NBA’s first Black coach.

“A bridge for civil rights,” said Jeannine Russell, Russell’s widow, who teared up as she spoke about her husband’s impact on civil rights.

The bridge is currently under construction and is expected to be completed by April.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.