Bill Russell receives COVID-19 vaccine: 'This is one shot I won't block'

"I just arrived to get my COVID shot," the 11-time champion said while wearing a hat honoring the late Kobe Bryant for a public service announcement produced by the NBA. "And this is one shot I won't block." 

He humorously added: "No Celtics were harmed during my shot." Russell turns 87 years old on Feb. 12. 

San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich and Hall of Famer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar are among other noteworthy NBA personalities who have received coronavirus vaccines as part of PSAs meant to encourage fans to also receive shots when available. While both the NBA and National Basketball Players Association said league personnel won't jump figurative lines to receive vaccines, the NBA has reportedly considered featuring current players in future advertising campaigns meant to promote the safety of the vaccine. 

Before his passing, MLB legend and former home-run king Hank Aaron received the COVID-19 vaccine to promote its safety to Black Americans.