Boston Celtics: The 25 Most Hated Opponents
By Bill Speros
5. Wilt Chamberlain
Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell enjoyed the first and perhaps most-intense great rivalry in the long history of the NBA. Eventually, like Magic Johnson and Larry Bird, the two developed a mutual love and respect for each other. During their playing days, they fought with all the ferocity of two majestic lions. And their epic confrontations were often took place at the highest level.
Russell and Chamberlain (or Boston and Philadelphia/San Francisco/Los Angeles) played for the Eastern Conference title in six times, and for the NBA championship in twice. Russell’s Celtics would win seven of those matchups. And Russell would beat Chamberlain’s Lakers in his final game for the 1969 NBA title. Regardless, they made each other better. Greatest and greater. Since both played before the days of players having the same agents and multi-million marketing deals, they had no reason to care for each other much off the court. Boston fans followed suit.
Next: No. 4 -- Magic