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Russell: Putting Ink to Paper
Date: December 19, 1956
Bill Russell signed his first pro contract with Celtics owner Walter A. Brown seated nearby on December 19, 1956. Despite being drafted earlier that year, Russell did not arrive in Boston until late December because of his participation in the 1956 Summer Olympics in Melbourne, Australia. With the events held in November and December, some teams hesitated to draft Russell due to his late arrival. The Celtics took advantage and signed a legend.
( C ) NBA/Celtics