Can determination trump talent? Apparently so, according to The Rivalry by John Taylor. The battles between Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain and their respective teams are detailed within the context of the growth of the game throughout the 1960s. Chamberlain was one of the most prolific post scorers in the history of basketball yet during the ten seasons that their careers overlapped, Russell and the Celtics claimed the Association title nine times.
The book delves into the psychological warfare waged between the two. For example, once Russell blocked Chamberlain twice on the same possession. When Chamberlain recovered the loose ball, Russell told him to “take it” and let him score. Over the years, Russell appeared to have gotten inside his adversary’s head and controlled their match-up despite less talent.
Russell and the Celtics put individual accolades aside in favour of winning. Boston dominated the Association for over a decade because players focused on what they did best; Russell was not offensively gifted but prided himself on playing defence, rebounding, and starting the fast break. Whilst Chamberlain accumulated statistics, a reputation as a coach-killer followed him from team to team.
It’s unlikely that another team will ever exhibit the same selflessness that Bill Russell’s teams displayed. But his career demonstrates what can be achieved in the right circumstances: two collegiate titles, eleven professional championships, and an Olympic Gold Medal.