On this date in 1965, Celtics big man Bill Russell signed a contract making him the NBA's highest paid player. The pact was for $100,001, one dollar more than rival Wilt Chamberlain. The Big Dipper had just inked a three-year, $300K deal with the 76ers, prompting Russell to tell the Celtics that he would retire unless he topped that salary. Russell's threat of retirement likely didn't have much behind it as he continued to play through the 1968/69 season after capturing his eleventh NBA title.
If you have a great blog piece that you think we should feature in Hoops Links, then send it to me at HoopsLinks@gmail.com. Here's this week's look around the blogosphere..
- The NBA Geek reminds us how important James Harden is to the Thunder.
- The Basketball Post looks at some familiar names joining Unicaja Malaga.
- Canis Hoopus fondly remembers the summer of Sam and Spree.
- Sactown Royalty has a plan for the Maloofs to shut down the rumor mill.
- Nets Are Scorching checks the pulse in Brooklyn.
- At The Hive wonders if Monty Williams is the right coach for the Hornets.
- SLC Dunk takes stock of the Jazz's blocking ability.
- Celtics Green talks near death experiences.
- RealGM reflects on four high school prospects that didn't live up to the hype.
- Basketbawful previews the Clippers in 2012/13.
- The Hoop Doctors applaud the Grizzlies' new owner.
- Blazer's Edge weighs in on women's hoops.
- Bucksketball plans on setting the bar low for Milwaukee.
- Stepien Rules had Ireland's biggest Cavs fan weigh in on the offseason.
- Ballin Europe breaks down some recent comments from a prominent European coach.
- Red94 wants to see LaMarcus Aldridge in Houston.
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