Bill Russell was Jackie Robinson’s ‘favorite athlete’, according to late legend’s widow

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NBA Hall of Famer Bill Russell, the winner of five MVP trophies, 11 championship rings and the first African-American to coach a team in the NBA, appeared on a recent taping of Melissa Harris-Perry to talk about Jackie Robinson and the influence of the trailblazing baseball player.

In light of Robinson’s biopic 42, which arives in theaters on Friday, Russell – who the late player’s widow Rachel Robinson claims was “Jackie’s favorite athlete” — opens up about his relationship with the baseball player and how Robinson helped pave his own path to success.

“I had so much respect and regard for him,” Russell says. “I was 13 when he broke into the major leagues…he was the hero because he conducted himself as a man and a professional.”

Follow Lilly Workneh @Lilly_Works