Kevin Durant Reflects on Russell Westbrook's Distinguished 18-Year NBA Career
Kevin Durant has expressed his admiration for Russell Westbrook, his former Oklahoma City Thunder teammate, as Westbrook concludes an illustrious 18-year journey in the NBA. Durant lauded Westbrook's rigorous preparation, fierce competitive nature, and his unique leadership style, which was characterized more by actions than words. Their shared history, from reaching the NBA Finals in their early twenties to numerous All-Star appearances, injuries, and the daily grind of professional basketball, created a bond filled with significant moments.
Durant shared a revealing anecdote about Westbrook's extraordinary dedication to training. He recounted asking assistant coach Mo Cheeks about the difficulty of working out before versus after practice. While Durant typically trained after practice, he observed that Westbrook had already completed his morning workout by the time he arrived at the gym. Cheeks confirmed that pre-practice workouts were generally more challenging, a revelation that prompted Durant to adopt a similar routine. This story not only illustrates Westbrook's exceptional work ethic but also highlights his profound influence on those around him, even his superstar teammates.
Furthermore, Durant challenged the widely held perception of Westbrook's on-court demeanor. Despite Westbrook's reputation for intense emotional displays during games, Durant revealed that off the court, his former teammate was surprisingly "quiet and methodical." This contrast underscores Westbrook's ability to channel his inner intensity into his performance, embracing pure freedom once the game lights shone brightest. Durant emphasized that this passionate approach was deeply inspiring, not just to him as a teammate, but to people from diverse backgrounds who witnessed Westbrook's unwavering commitment.
Westbrook officially announced his retirement on August 12 at the age of 37, marking the end of a remarkable career that began in 2008 when the Oklahoma City Thunder drafted him fourth overall. He spent his final NBA season with the Sacramento Kings and Washington Wizards. Despite receiving multiple contract offers during the offseason, Westbrook chose to step away from the game. His career statistics are staggering, including holding the NBA record for the most triple-doubles with 209, and achieving a single-season record of 42 triple-doubles during his MVP campaign in 2016-17. He also ranks fifth all-time in assists with 10,351 and fourteenth in points with 27,176. Beyond his NBA achievements, Westbrook earned an Olympic gold medal with Team USA in 2012 and was honored as a member of the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.
Durant’s message extended beyond their professional connection, acknowledging Westbrook’s family and the extensive support network that contributed to his success throughout his career. Durant concluded his tribute by encouraging Westbrook to continue inspiring others in his post-basketball life, asserting that his profound impact and achievements are an unalterable part of history.
Westbrook's retirement, though without an NBA championship, solidifies his place among the basketball elite. His prolific statistical record and enduring presence in the league define a career that, as Kevin Durant aptly put it, cannot be forgotten.