Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Russell Westbrook gets a storybook welcome from Thunder crowd

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Renzo Pocholo Salao | Last updated May 6, 2025 12:30 AM ET

Oklahoma City Thunder fans have not forgotten Russell Westbrook’s place in their franchise’s brief history.

The former NBA MVP played over 800 games across 11 seasons in a Thunder uniform. On Monday, Westbrook returned to Paycom Center in Oklahoma City as a playoff adversary for the first time.

The Thunder and Westbrook’s Denver Nuggets squared off for Game 1 of their Western Conference semifinal series. Westbrook, who has primarily come off the bench in his first season with the Nuggets, checked into the contest for the first time at the 5:17 mark of the first quarter.

The home crowd began to applaud once they saw Westbrook make his way to the floor. The cheers quickly turned into a full-on standing ovation for the nine-time All-Star. It was a moment that felt straight out of an uplifting sports movie.

Russell Westbrook gets a standing ovation from OKC crowd as he check into the game for the first time pic.twitter.com/AgFDqQ2yUv
— RG (@RyanGreeneDNVR) May 6, 2025

Monday’s Game 1 was far from the first time Westbrook returned as an opposing player. The Nuggets guard’s appearance marked his ninth time facing off against the Thunder as a visiting player. But the love for Westbrook remains strong six years after leaving the franchise that drafted him.

Westbrook has had a tumultuous journey since he departed OKC. Despite some erratic moments from Westbrook this season, Nuggets fans have mostly welcomed him with open arms.

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

More must-reads: