Russell Westbrook: Forever a Thunder Legend
Get ready, Oklahoma City! A tribute to Russell Westbrook is just around the corner, and it’s going to be a heartwarming spectacle. The 2017 MVP announced his retirement this summer, and now the Oklahoma City Thunder have revealed that on February 7, the rafters will honor him by raising his jersey high above the arena.
Westbrook, who was selected fourth overall in the 2008 NBA Draft, entered the league just as the team was transitioning from the Seattle Supersonics to the Oklahoma City Thunder. This connection solidified his legacy in Oklahoma, particularly alongside Kevin Durant, as they formed a formidable duo that led the Thunder to the NBA Finals in 2012, ultimately falling to the Miami Heat.
A Historic Career
Individually, Westbrook made history by being the first player since Oscar Robertson to average a triple-double for an entire season. In the 2016-2017 season, he showcased his phenomenal skills, putting up averages of 31.6 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 10.4 assists per game, earning himself the MVP award in the process.
Sam Presti, the Thunder’s Executive Vice President and General Manager, captured the essence of Westbrook’s legacy perfectly: “Many players make an impact, but only great players leave a legacy. Russell Westbrook’s legacy was built both on and off the court. His mentality was relentless, and his commitment was profound. That’s why the people of Oklahoma proudly consider him one of their own. His number will be raised high in the arena, where it will remain forever in Oklahoma City.”
A New Chapter
Before the start of the 2019-20 season, Westbrook was traded to the Houston Rockets in a move that marked a new chapter for the Thunder, as they officially parted ways with the star guard and fellow All-Star Paul George. This transition laid the groundwork for the success the franchise is currently experiencing.
Since then, Westbrook, a nine-time All-Star and member of the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team in 2021, has had stints with the Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, Denver Nuggets, and Sacramento Kings, but his heart remains in Oklahoma.
Forever a Thunder 💙
