Blackwing Volume 11, Behind the Design

The Blackwing 11 is our tribute to Bill Russell and his undeniable legacy. The number 11 foil stamped on each pencil represents the number of championships he won, more than any player in NBA history. The pencil also sports a green and black color scheme with a #6 wrapped around the base of the barrel, let's take a deeper look at the significance behind the design of Blackwing Volume 11.

Bill Russell #6 - The most famous number in basketball

The pencil's distinct green and black color scheme is a nod to Bill Russell's Boston Celtics where he spent the entirety of his NBA career. Not only did Bill Russell win 11 championships in his 13 seasons with the Celtics, he did so as both player and player-coach on occasion. 

At the base of the Volume 11 pencil is Bill's iconic #6 wrapped around the barrel. It is the only number in the NBA that is retired league-wide meaning no other player in history will be able to don that specific number. This is emblematic of his historic career, enshrining his legacy and impact on the game forever.

The Bill Russell Notebook - Impact on and off the court

The design for the Vol. 11 Bill Russell Notebook is inspired by his legacy on and off the basketball court. While he is revered as one of the greatest of all time, Bill Russell was also a steadfast champion for civil rights and social justice. Bill was a fearless advocate for racial justice and equality--he marched with Martin Luther King, Jr. during the March on Washington and coordinated boycotts against discrimination. Bill Russell knew that his impact off the court was just as important as his impact on it. 

Shop the Blackwing Vol. 11 - Bill Russell Collection

Learn more about Bill Russell's life and legacy