Clippers PG Russell Westbrook scores 25,000th point, joins elite company
Los Angeles Clippers point guard Russell Westbrook joined an exclusive group on Friday when he reached the 25,000-point milestone against the Detroit Pistons.
According to Basketball Reference, Westbrook becomes only the second player all-time to record 25,000 points, 8,000 rebounds and 9,000 assists in a career. The other? LeBron James.
On top of becoming the 25th player in NBA history to reach 25,000 points, Westbrook joined James, Kevin Durant and teammate James Harden as the only active players to accomplish the feat. Harden reached the milestone on Dec. 15 against the Golden State Warriors.
Westbrook notched point No. 25,000 with 2:44 left in the fourth quarter of the Clippers' 136-125 victory over the Pistons.
The 35-year-old has struggled most of the year, averaging career lows in points (11.3), assists (4.7) and minutes played (23.0). However, on this landmark night, he turned back the clock, recording 23 points off the bench — tied for his second-highest total this year. Westbrook shot 10-of-13 from the field and 2-of-3 from beyond the arc.
After the game, an emotional Westbrook reflected on his feat, calling it a "blessing."
"I don't take any day, any night for granted," Westbrook said via Joey Linn of Sports Illustrated. "I'm grateful to be able to play the game of basketball and use my platform to impact and inspire other people."
Westbrook's All-Star days are almost certainly behind him. Yet, he continues to add to a potential Hall of Fame resume 15 seasons into his NBA career. Following a historic outing on Friday, he ranks among the best all-time in points (25th), assists (9th) and steals (19th).
More must-reads: