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 Wednesday, October 13
Russell remembers Chamberlain
 
ESPN.com news services

 Boston Celtics legend Bill Russell issued a statement Wednesday about the death of his friend and rival, Wilt Chamberlain:

"I feel unspeakably injured. I've lost a dear and exceptional friend and an important part of my life. Our relationship was intensely personal.

We just loved playing against each other. The fierceness of the competition bonded us as friends for eternity.
Bill Russell, on Chamberlain

"Many have called our competition the greatest rivalry in the history of sports. We didn't have a rivalry; we had a genuinely fierce competition that was based on friendship and respect. We just loved playing against each other. The fierceness of the competition bonded us as friends for eternity. We loved competition. Wilt loved competition.

"Wilt was the greatest offensive player I have ever seen ... I've seen none better. Because his talents and skills were so super human, his play forced me to play at my highest level. If I didn't, I'd risk embarrassment and our team would likely lose.

"Out of respect for Wilt and Wilt's family I'd rather not say much more at this time other than I'm going to dearly miss my friend Wilton Norman Chamberlain."

 


ALSO SEE
NBA legend Chamberlain dead at 63

Lawrence: Wilt was bigger than life

Dr. Jack: Wilt was a giant, gentle man

Wilt was much more than the 100-point man

Colleagues remember the invincible Wilt

Chamberlain had history of heart problems

In one of his last interviews, Wilt told all

What they're saying about Wilt

Chamberlain's 100-point game

Remembering Wilt's 100-point game

West has fond memories of Wilt

Chamberlain's career statistics




  
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