Boston Celtics legend Bill Russell, who towered over pro basketball throughout the turbulent 1960s and stood tall against the era’s virulent racism, died Sunday, according to a statement posted to his verified Twitter page. 

Russell was 88. 

    Russell's wife, Jeannine, was by his side at the time of his death, the statement said. His family thanked fans for "keeping Bill in your prayers."

    "Perhaps you'll relive one or two of the golden moments he gave us, or recall his trademark laugh as he delighted in explaining the real story behind how those moments unfolded," the statement said. "And we hope each of us can find a new way to act or speak up in Bill's uncompromising, dignified, and always constructive commitment to principle."

    Russell led the Celtics to 11 NBA titles, two as player-coach, in a victory-filled résumé considered to be one of pro sports’ most insurmountable records.

    He is rivaled by Henri “Pocket Rocket” Richard, who hoisted the Stanley Cup 11 times with the Montreal Canadiens, and Yogi Berra, a member of 10 World Series-winning New York Yankees teams.

    No modern players hold a candle to Russell’s accomplishments. The award for the most valuable player of the NBA Finals is named after him.