NBA names finals MVP award after Bill Russell

Bill Russell, the legendary center who led Boston to 11 NBA titles in 13 years including a record eight in a row, will have his name adorn the trophy given to the top player in the NBA Finals.

NBA commissioner David Stern announced Saturday that the NBA Finals Most Valuable Player award will henceforth be named for Russell. The award is selected by a media panel at the best-of-seven championship series.

"Who better to name this prestigious award for than one of the greatest players of all time and the ultimate champion?" Stern said.

"Bill inspired a generation not just of basketball fans but Americans everywhere. He is respected by colleagues, coaches, fans, and his legacy clearly has withstood the test of time."

Russell helped the Celtics to the 1957 NBA crown in his rookie season and began a run of 10 consecutive NBA Finals appearances, a run that saw eight Boston titles from 1959 through 1966.

Russell became a player-coach after Red Auerbach retired following the 1966 season, becoming the first black coach in NBA history and guiding the Celtics to titles in 1968 and 1969, the first year an NBA Finals MVP award was given.