What Russell Westbrook said on NBA future days before shocking retirement; ‘I love basketball…’
Westbrook Calls Time on NBA Journey After 18 Seasons
Bharatmorningnews.com – Russell Westbrook has officially concluded his professional basketball career, making the announcement via social media on Wednesday. The veteran guard played for seven franchises throughout an 18-year span in the NBA.
Seattle SuperSonics originally selected Westbrook with the fourth overall selection in the 2008 NBA Draft. He departed the league carrying career statistics of 20.9 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 8.0 assists per contest.
Uncertainty Before the Decision
Westbrook's next chapter remained unclear during the summer months while he evaluated free agency possibilities. Nevertheless, the 37-year-old showed strong intentions to keep competing just prior to his retirement declaration.
"I love playing basketball. And if it happens, it works. That is my plan," Westbrook stated.
Reports indicated several organizations expressed interest in signing him. Westbrook sought a position offering meaningful contribution as he approached the concluding phase of his professional journey.
Sacramento's Last-Minute Pursuit
Only 24 hours before the retirement announcement, Marc Stein of The Stein Line shared that Sacramento examined options to bring back the veteran. The Kings potentially envisioned Westbrook mentoring highly regarded rookie Darius Acuff Jr.
Even with Sacramento's enthusiasm and another NBA opportunity on the horizon, Westbrook chose to step away from active play.
"Sometimes you don't even know when you've already watched the end. You had to be there. And now it's over," Westbrook wrote.
A Legacy of Excellence
Westbrook exits the NBA as the all-time triple-double champion, accumulating 209 such performances. His capacity to score, rebound, and distribute made him one of the era's most adaptable guards.
The Oklahoma City Thunder, where Westbrook spent his first 11 seasons, saw him capture the 2017 NBA MVP honor. During his 11-year tenure with the franchise, he earned eight All-Star appearances, secured two scoring championships, and won three assist crowns.
Westbrook's final NBA years involved considerable movement. His last four campaigns featured stints with the Los Angeles Lakers, LA Clippers, Denver Nuggets, and Sacramento Kings. While his concluding chapters spanned multiple cities, his legacy remains anchored to his extraordinary Oklahoma City run.
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