Honey Russell: Between Games, Between Halves

One of the first inductees into the Basketball Hall of Fame, Honey Russell spent 28 years as a professional player and more than two decades as a coach, including 18 years at a school in New Jersey. His son here writes an affectionate if banal reminiscence of him, concentrating more on the man than on his achievements. But this focus does not obscure the record of a natural athlete who excelled not only on the court but also on the baseball diamond. Russell's path crossed those of many in other fields, from Ed Sullivan and Bob Hope to Al Capone. He also knew dozens of baseball stars, since he ended his career as a scout for several teams. The approach is anecdotal; unfortunately, few of the anecdotes are particularly memorable. Photos. (April 30)