Check out Bill Russell’s GOAT-worthy birthday cake
Bill Russell’s 87th birthday is on Friday, and he didn’t let the occasion pass without reminding everybody what a competitor, and winner his really is.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JULY 21: Basketball Hall of Fame member Bill Russell attends a game between the Minnesota Lynx and the Las Vegas Aces at the Mandalay Bay Events Center on July 21, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Aces defeated the Lynx 79-74. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
Ethan Miller/Getty ImagesBy Alex Barth, 985TheSportsHub.com
How do you celebrate a legend's birthday? With a legendary birthday cake, of course.
Bill Russell's 87th birthday is on Friday, and he didn't let the occasion pass without reminding everybody what a competitor, and winner his really is.
In a video posted to Twitter Friday morning, Russell is shown behind a behemoth of a birthday cake, with a "forest fire" or candles on top off it. He's asked how he feels about turning 87 - to which the 11-time champion replies "I'll kick it's ass" before blowing out every single candle unassisted.
Since joining Twitter three years ago, Russell has been the personification of cool. From getting into back-and-forth's with current NBA players and media members, to calling out a fan who thought he was dead, to general reminders of his complete dominance during his time in the league.
Between Tom Brady winning his seventh ring, and The Last Dance bringing Michael Jordan's run back into the spotlight, there's been no shortage of GOAT conversations in recent months. Russell took a minute on Friday to weigh in on that conversation, with a little flex of his own.
Russell has also used his Twitter presence to work towards social change, as he did when he was a player. He often weighs in on social and political matters, and urged and informed voters leading up to the 2020 election. Most recently, he's campaigned for the COVID-19 vaccine, tweeting last week "this is one shot I won't block."
It seems like whatever stage of his life he's in - as a player, as a coach, and even in retirement, Bill Russell finds a way to be great at it. Here's wishing him a happy 87th birthday, and many more ahead.
Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at Alexander.Barth@bbgi.com.
