Ben Wallace Says Entire NBA Should Wear No. 6 To Start Season

The NBA is retiring Bill Russell‘s number, however Hall of Famer Ben Wallace wishes to see the league do the opposite on opening night … informing TMZ Sports it would be amazing to have every gamer wear #6 in honor of the late Celtics legend.

As we formerly reported, the league chose to completely make #6 off-limits throughout the league after Russell’s passing in July … with exception of those who are currently wearing the digit, like LeBron James and DeAndre Jordan.

Wallace — who used #6 at one point throughout his excellent profession with the Pistons — states he’s cool with those who chose to keep their existing number … informing us, “I don’t think it’s a problem with them wearing number six. They couldn’t foresee the passing of Mr. Russell.”

The four-time Defensive Player of the Year goes on to make a recommendation of his own … including, “If it was up to me, I’d start the season where everybody would have to wear #6.”

Russell — who won 13 titles (11 as a gamer, 2 as a player-coach) — died at the age of 88 … after contributing years of his life to the Association.

Hall of Fame point player Magic Johnson stated in the consequences of Russell’s death that the NBA ought to retire #6 across the league in honor of his tradition — which’s precisely what occurred.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver discussed the choice at the time … stating, “Bill Russell’s unparalleled success on the court and pioneering civil rights activism deserves to be honored in a unique and historic way.”

“Permanently retiring his No. 6 across every NBA team ensures that Bill’s transcendent career will always be recognized.”