If you have a good shot, take it, Bill Russell advises.

When someone opposes your bill but asks you to engage in a dialogue on their home court after the legislature adjourns, take it.

That’s the advice I gave someone today.

Bill Russell starred on 11 NBA championship teams. He didn’t have to admit defeat often.

In the legislature, however, when defeat is imminent, you can withdraw your bill.

The outcome is the same. The bill doesn’t become law.

But no one is recorded as voting against it. That makes it easier to get their support next season.