He and I had one big thing in common — the will to win.
Meaning
Russell wrote this about a great rival, pointing to shared competitive drive as the bond between two players on opposing sides. It reminds us that respect often grows from a common standard. In your own life, look for the person who pushes you hardest and learn from their determination.
Source: "I'm Not Involved Anymore", Sports Illustrated (1969)
Best Sports Quotes with Meaning
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About the author
Bill Russell (1934–2022) was an American basketball center who won 11 NBA championships with the Boston Celtics and became the NBA's first Black head coach. He is also remembered as a civil rights advocate.
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