Watch: Bill Russell flips off Charles Barkley on live TV

Warning: Video contains graphic content

Bill Russell is a living legend, and when you're an 11-time NBA champ you can do whatever you want on live television - including giving fellow Hall of Famer Charles Barkley the finger.

In any case, Russell appeared to be enjoying himself at the NBA Awards on Monday night, even if TNT might end up footing a bill for a fine from the Federal Communications Commission.

Later in the evening, Russell tweeted out an apology for his act, blaming his indiscretion on "pure instinct" upon seeing Barkley.