Yes, number 6 is permanently retired across the entire National Basketball Association (NBA).
This decision was made to honor the legendary Boston Celtics player, Bill Russell, who wore the number 6 throughout his illustrious career. Following his passing, the NBA announced that no player would ever wear the number 6 again, making it the first jersey number to be retired league-wide in any major North American professional sports league.
Why Was Number 6 Retired League-Wide?
The NBA's unprecedented move to retire number 6 universally is a testament to Bill Russell's immense impact both on and off the court. Russell was not only an 11-time NBA champion, a five-time MVP, and an Olympic gold medalist, but he was also a pioneering civil rights activist. His contributions to the game and to society were profound, making him a figure deserving of such a unique and lasting tribute.
- Honoring a Legend: The primary reason is to pay ultimate homage to Bill Russell, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in basketball history and a champion of social justice.
- Unified Recognition: Retiring the number across all 30 NBA teams ensures that Russell's legacy is recognized and remembered by every player, team, and fan throughout the league, transcending individual team allegiances.
- Setting a Precedent: This historic act sets a new standard for honoring transcendent figures in sports, emphasizing their broader cultural significance.
Impact on Current Players
Players who were already wearing the number 6 during the 2022-2023 season were permitted to continue doing so for the remainder of their careers. However, no new player has been issued the number, and no current player can switch to it.
For instance:
- LeBron James: Famously wore number 6 for the Los Angeles Lakers. He continued to wear it during the 2022-2023 season but has since transitioned back to number 23.
- Alex Caruso: Another prominent player, Alex Caruso of the Chicago Bulls, was also wearing number 6 and continued to do so.
Key Details of #6 Retirement
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Honored For | Bill Russell (Boston Celtics) |
| Status | Permanently retired across the entire NBA |
| Effective | Announced prior to the 2022-2023 NBA season |
| Exemption | Players already wearing #6 during the 2022-2023 season could keep it |
| Significance | First jersey number retired league-wide in major North American pro sports |
This move ensures that Bill Russell's legacy is woven into the fabric of the NBA forever, making number 6 a symbol of unparalleled achievement and commitment to justice.
