Bill Russell’s widow, Janine, shared a heartfelt tribute to NBA legend Jerry West following news of his death on Wednesday.
West, whose basketball excellence led to his silhouette becoming the official logo of the NBA, died peacefully at home on Wednesday morning. The Clippers announcedHe added that his wife, Karen, was by his side.
West worked as a consultant for the Clippers.
“So sad to hear of the passing of Jerry West,” read a post on Russell’s X account, which is run by Jeannine. “Condolences to his family and friends. He and Bill had great love and respect for each other. Bill won on the court, Jerry won on the course.”
The message tagged the Lakers and the NBA and included the hashtag “Rest in Peace Jerry.”
The cause of West’s death has not been disclosed.
He was 86 years old.
West, nicknamed “Mr. Clutch,” was elected to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame three times as a player, an executive and, later this year, a contributor.
West was named to the All-Star team every season during his 14-year NBA career with the Lakers, leading Los Angeles to a championship in 1972.
Janine explained earlier this week that she posted the message from Russell’s X account after fans had been circulating a “LET GO CELTICS!!” message shortly before kickoff during Game 2 of the NBA Finals on Sunday, when the Celtics faced off against the Mavericks, which Boston ultimately won 105-98.
“To everyone who has contacted me about this post: I am Bill’s wife. Stay tuned for exciting announcements regarding building on my husband’s legacy and other great projects.” Jeannine wrote: He said at the time: “Another great win tonight for the @celtics Brown or Holiday #BillRussellMVPFinalsAward.”
During his 13-year NBA career with Boston, Russell led the Celtics to a record 11 championships and won five MVP awards.
In 2009, the NBA Finals Most Valuable Player award was renamed after Russell.
Two-time Hall of Fame inductee He died peacefully surrounded by Joan. He passed away on July 31, 2022, at the age of 88, his family announced on social media at the time.
