In the perennial debate over basketball’s Greatest of All Time (GOAT), figures like Michael Jordan and LeBron James are often the central figures. However, for Shawn Kemp, a former Seattle SuperSonics star, the title belongs to someone else entirely: Bill Russell of the Boston Celtics. During a candid conversation on the ‘All The Smoke’ podcast with Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson, Kemp passionately made the case for Russell’s unparalleled greatness.
Kemp’s admiration for Russell stems from the latter’s multifaceted contributions on the court. “People might disagree with me, but Bill Russell is the best to ever play the game,” Kemp remarked. Unlike typical top scorers, Russell’s impact was felt through his all-around play. His career average of 15.1 points per game might seem modest, but his defensive prowess and exceptional rebounding, with an astonishing 22.5 rebounds per game, were key to the Celtics’ 11 championships.
What truly sets Russell apart, according to Kemp, is his innovative approach to shot-blocking. Kemp noted that while modern players often swat the ball into the stands, Russell aimed to keep the ball in play, turning blocked shots into offensive opportunities for his team. This strategic playstyle not only showcased Russell’s skill but also highlighted his basketball IQ and selfless approach to the game.
Kemp also drew comparisons between his own game and Russell’s, despite both being 6’10”. Kemp, known for his offensive flair, acknowledged that Russell’s game was rooted in fundamentals and team play. He emphasized Russell’s dominance over contemporaries like Wilt Chamberlain, underlining Russell’s consistency and leadership throughout his career.
Unlike today’s big men, who often take upwards of 18-20 shots per game, Russell averaged just over 13, focusing instead on facilitating his teammates. Playing alongside stars like Bob Cousy, Bill Sharman, and John Havlicek, Russell prioritized team success over individual accolades. This selflessness was a hallmark of his career, further evidenced by his impressive field goal percentages, particularly in the 1958-59 season when he ranked second in the league.
Beyond his endorsement of Russell, Kemp also weighed in on other GOAT contenders, notably LeBron James. Kemp suggested that LeBron should be compared more to Magic Johnson than Michael Jordan, praising LeBron’s versatility and playmaking abilities akin to Magic’s style. On the other hand, he viewed Kobe Bryant as a closer match to Jordan, particularly in terms of their scoring prowess and championship mentality.
In sum, Kemp’s insights offer a refreshing perspective on the GOAT debate, highlighting the importance of versatility, team play, and basketball intelligence. Bill Russell’s legacy, as argued by Kemp, goes beyond his statistics, embodying the essence of what it means to be the greatest in the game.
