Why the Thunder should retire Russell Westbrook’s number

Thunder GM Sam Presti’s heartfelt message about Russell Westbrook following the future Hall of Famer’s retirement announcement is truly a testament to what the veteran means to the organization. For Presti, Westbrook’s impact set a standard for the Thunder organization.

“Russell Westbrook is the ultimate competitor,” Presti said. “His internal belief and unbridled fearlessness helped establish the foundation of our organization from day one in 2008, and he elevated the confidence and inspired our community in every year thereafter.

“He built a Hall of Fame career not by making statements or simply by breaking records; he did it by showing us all the power of asking one simple question: Why Not?”

From the front office to the court, Westbrook’s influence can’t be overstated as one of the most revered players in Thunder history. Outside of two-time MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who led the Thunder to its first championship in franchise history, Westbrook is an all-time great.

Another future Hall of Famer and former teammate, Kevin Durant, had kind words for Russ as well.

Kevin Durant’s long-winded response to Russell Westbrook’s retirement

Rockets All-Star Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook played eight seasons together with the Thunder. Four years into their union, the Thunder made their first Finals appearance. For many, the tandem could have eventually led the franchise to a championship.

Durant gave Westbrook his flowers for a stellar NBA career after the veteran guard announced his retirement via X, formerly Twitter.

“A lot of people looked at the emotions on the court and thought Russ was loud, nah to me, he was quiet and methodical. He led by example and once the lights were bright, he let everything out and experienced pure freedom,” Durant wrote. “It was inspiring as his teammate and everywhere I went, I seen it inspire people from all walks of life, crazy thing is, he didn’t say much, he just showed up. For 18 years. This basketball life is sacred to us as professionals, what we put into that court means everything.

“Some of us wish we could go back and do things with a little more intent and some can just wipe their hands and be satisfied with the time spent. Who u gonna be? We know what zero was on…keep inspiring in the next phase of life champ.”

Durant couldn’t finish his tribute without mentioning their run to the Finals in 2012.

“The first YNs, finals run in our early 20s, all star games, seeing each other get injured and bounce back,” Durant added. “The bus rides, plane rides, card games, jokes and arguments, the whole thing, memorable!!”

Westbrook’s intensity and high motor are what made him one of the most entertaining players to watch. He not only stuffed the stat sheet regularly, making NBA history in the process, but also wore his heart on his sleeve. It didn’t go unnoticed, as Westbrook will go down as one of the most memorable guards of his generation, whose jersey should be retired by the Thunder organization in the foreseeable future.