NBA players in the 1960s era influenced the league's dynamic and style. Titles like MVP often trumped rings for defining player greatness in the 1960s, due to one team owning the league.

Bill Russell Finishes Off Hawks; Game 7, 1960 NBA Finals. The Celtics won their second consecutive title, thanks to Bill Russell, who scored 22 points and grabbed 35 rebounds vs. the St. Louis Hawks.

There is the notion NBA players were less athletic in the 1960s than today's game. Many fans feel the likes of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Bill Russell and Elgin Baylor would struggle against the likes ...