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Russell Westbrook issues apparent response to overseas reports

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Darryn Albert | Last updated Jun 5, 2025 6:02 PM ET

Russell Westbrook isn’t about to leave the states any time soon.

The former MVP guard Westbrook took to his Instagram page on Thursday with a notable message. In an image post, Westbrook alluded to playing an 18th season in the NBA next year.

“I am a force of nature,” wrote Westbrook. “Seventeen in the [books emoji]. Thankful and Grateful for the continued journey. Eighteen on the way. -The Brodie”

Westbrook on IG:

“Seventeen in the
Eighteen on the way.”

Brodie is NOT going anywhere pic.twitter.com/21UdV9lMSL
— hoopswontstop (@hoopswontstop) June 5, 2025

The timing here is probably no coincidence for Westbrook. Earlier this week, a report claimed that Hapoel Tel Aviv BC in Israel was ready to offer Westbrook a massive contract (by overseas basketball standards). But if Westbrook’s Instagram post is any indication, he has no plans of taking Hapoel up on their offer.

Now 36 years old, the former NBA MVP Westbrook averaged 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game this season for the Denver Nuggets. He has a $3.5 million player option to return to the Nuggets for next season but can turn it down to test the open market.

Money likely isn’t the most important consideration for Westbrook at this point, especially since he has earned nearly $350 million in salary over the course of his NBA career. Westbrook still has another several weeks to mull over his future before NBA free agency officially opens, but just make sure that you don’t ask him about his plans (or you may get a snarky response).

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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