Report: Russell arrested at airport

Former Boston Celtics great Bill Russell was arrested earlier this week at a Seattle area airport for having a gun in his carry-on baggage, KIRO-TV reported.

Russell, 79, was bringing a .38-caliber handgun into a prohibited area, and it was found during a security screening at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on Wednesday, a TSA spokeswoman told the TV station. Russell has a permit for the weapon, KIRO said, and he was released but may face a fine up to $7,500. The Associated Press reported that Russell's gun — containing six rounds — was confiscated.

Firearms can only travel via checked baggage.

The Hall of Famer lives in Mercer Island, Wash., near Seattle. On Nov. 1, Boston plans to unveil a statue to honor Russell, who was active in the civil rights movement in addition to leading the Celtics to 11 NBA championships in his 13 seasons as a player.