Russell Westbrook has officially ended his 18-year career in the NBA. The 37-year-old announced his decision on Wednesday through a farewell video narrated by actor Michael B. Jordan. Known for his aggressive playing style, Westbrook was a dominant force on the court.
Throughout his career, Westbrook was a standout player. He was relentless, attacking the basket with incredible intensity. He never held back, playing every game with maximum effort. Critics may point to his shooting or turnovers, but his achievements speak volumes.
Career Achievements
Westbrook retires as the Triple-Double King, setting a record with 209 triple-doubles. He surpassed Oscar Robertson’s previous record of 181. His accolades include nine All-Star appearances, nine All-NBA selections, two scoring titles, and the 2017 MVP award. He was also named to the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team.
The 2016-2017 season was unforgettable. After Kevin Durant left Oklahoma City, Westbrook led the team by averaging 31.6 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 10.4 assists. He became the first player since 1962 to average a triple-double for a season. Westbrook achieved this feat three more times in his career.
Westbrook’s Tenure Across Teams
Westbrook’s career included stints with several teams: Oklahoma City, Houston, Washington, Los Angeles, Denver, and Sacramento. At 37, he still performed well, starting 58 of 64 games for the Kings with averages of 15.2 points and 6.7 assists.
Despite offers from Sacramento and Washington, Westbrook chose retirement. His time with the Los Angeles Lakers became a talking point, as the experiment with LeBron James and Anthony Davis faced challenges.
Legacy
Westbrook leaves behind an impressive legacy. He ranks 14th on the all-time scoring list with 27,176 points and fifth in assists with 10,351. His record also features 9,025 rebounds and 2,038 steals. Whether praised or criticized, Westbrook’s impact on the game was undeniable.
Russell Westbrook departs from the NBA, but his fiery presence will be missed. His unique style made him a captivating player to watch, and his departure marks the end of an era for the league.