Mar 2, 2023; San Francisco, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers point guard Russell Westbrook (0) between plays against the Golden State Warriors during the second quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images

Denver Nuggets Star Russell Westbrook Posts Heartfelt IG Story Before Hornets Game

Originally posted on Fastbreak on SI | By Ben Stinar | Last updated Feb 20, 2025 9:29 PM ET

On Thursday evening, the Denver Nuggets are playing the Charlotte Hornets (at home) in Colorado.

After missing seven straight games with an injury, Russell Westbrook made his return to action.

Via Ryan Blackburn of Mile High Sports: "Nuggets starters tonight:

Jamal Murray
Christian Braun
Michael Porter
Aaron Gordon
Nikola Jokic

Russell Westbrook is available and will play significant minutes."

Nuggets starters tonight:

Jamal Murray
Christian Braun
Michael Porter
Aaron Gordon
Nikola Jokic

Russell Westbrook is available and will play significant minutes.
— Ryan Blackburn (@NBABlackburn) February 21, 2025

Before the game, Westbrook made a heartfelt post to his Instagram story for his mother.

Westbrook wrote: "Happy Birthday to my momma!! I love you mom! I'm grateful for you each day, I hope today is filled with all the LOVE you deserve because you are a speical person. Now go shop till you drop lol Thak you for your continued love and support.

I love you momma! ❤️"

Westbrook is in his first season playing for the Nuggets.

The 2017 MVP is averaging 13.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 1.5 steals per contest while shooting 47.7% from the field and 33.1% from the three-point range in 48 games.

This article first appeared on Fastbreak on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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