William Felton Russell was an American professional basketball player who played as a center for the Boston Celtics of the National Basketball Association from 1956 to 1969.

Bill Russell parents: Charles Russell, Katie Russell

Russell was born on February 12, 1934, to Charles Russell and Katie Russell in West Monroe, Louisiana, United States.

Monroe was very segregated and the Russells often struggled with racism in their daily lives.

Russell’s father was once refused service at a gas station until the staff had taken care of all the white customers first.

When he attempted to leave and find a different station, the attendant stuck a shotgun in his face and threatened to kill him if he did not stay and wait his turn.

In another incident, Russell’s mother was walking outside in a fancy dress when a white policeman accosted her.

He told her to go home and remove the dress, which he described as “white woman’s clothing”.

Bill Russell parents nationality

Both Russell’s parents were blacks.