University of San Francisco graduate Bill Russell led the Dons in the 1956 national championship and a string of 61 unbeaten games. Twice named All-American and 1956 College Player of the Year, he was key to the 1956 U.S. Olympic championship at Melbourne. He had an outstanding pro basketball career, bringing the Boston Celtics 11 titles from 1956 to 1969. A five-time National Basketball Association Most Valuable Player, he was named Athlete of the Decade by Sporting News in 1971. He was elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1974.

Inducted into the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame in 1980.

Plaque location: University of San Francisco