Russell Westbrook had an up-and-down season with the Denver Nuggets.
Although the former Oklahoma City Thunder superstar’s infectious energy sometimes led to highlight-worthy plays, it also resulted in reckless turnovers and low-percentage shots.
Still, it’s incredible that at age 36, Westbrook can be productive while coming off the bench.
After the Oklahoma City Thunder eliminated the Nuggets in the second round of the playoffs, the Denver Gazette's Vinny Benedetto asked Westbrook about his decision regarding his upcoming player option.
In typical Westbrook fashion, the two-time scoring champion responded with flair.
"Tried to get Russell Westbrook in the locker room to see he had made a decision on his player option for next season," Benedetto wrote on X/Twitter on May. 18.
"He looked at his watch and asked what I was wearing tomorrow. When I said I didn’t know, he said 'exactly' and walked off. Nuggets aren’t doing exit interviews."
Many believed that aging point guard was prepared to call it quits in the offseason, but he made his retirement plans clear on Thursday with a captivating social media announcement.
“I am a Force of Nature,” Westbrook wrote on Instagram. "Seventeen in the books. Thankful and Grateful for the continued journey. Eighteen on the way.”
Westbrook will be a Hall of Famer once he retires from the NBA. The UCLA product’s rollercoaster play in Denver should distract NBA fans from the fact that he’s a top-75 player of all time.
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With the Thunder, Westbrook solidified himself as a force to be reckoned with in the pros. The 2017 MVP averaged a triple-double on three straight occasions.
Westbrook’s explosive first step and forceful slams at the rim made him virtually impossible to defend one-on-one.
It’s fair to say the nine-time All-Star has lost a step, but it would be unjustifiable to suggest he was a complete non-factor with the Nuggets.
Westbrook contributed 13.3 points. 6.1 assists and 4.9 rebounds in a role that required him to lead Denver’s second unit.
If Westbrook declines his $6.7 million player option for the 2025-26 season and looks for a new NBA home, there should be multiple franchises prepared to strike a deal with the likable veteran.
More NBA: Stephen Curry makes retirement plans clear with announcement after Warriors' season-ending loss