By Field Level Media
Nov 02 (Field Level Media) – The Oklahoma City Thunder will retire Russell Westbrook’s No. 0 jersey during a Feb. 7 game against the New York Knicks, the team announced Monday.
Westbrook, who played the first 11 of his 18 NBA seasons with the Thunder (2008-19), announced his retirement from the NBA on Aug. 12.
The nine-time All-Star point guard, who turns 38 on Nov. 12, is Oklahoma City’s all-time leader in games (821), points (18,859), rebounds (5,760), assists (6,897), steals (1,442), field goals made (6,626) and minutes (28,329).
“We are incredibly proud to retire Russell’s number. Russell made a lasting mark on the city and state during his time with the team, and his involvement in the community has endured long after,” said Thunder chairman Clayton I. Bennett. “We are deeply grateful for his genuine care for the people of Oklahoma, and he will always be considered a member of the Oklahoma City community.”
Oklahoma City drafted Westbrook with the No. 4 overall pick in 2008. He won NBA scoring titles with the Thunder in 2014-15 and 2016-17. He was named the league’s Most Valuable Player in 2016-17 after averaging a triple-double with 31.6 points, 10.7 rebounds and 10.4 assists.
“Many players make an impact but only great players leave a legacy. Russell Westbrook’s legacy was built both on the court and in the community,” said Thunder executive vice president and general manager Sam Presti. “His mindset was relentless, his commitment deep. For all those reasons, Oklahomans consider him one of their own and his number will be raised to the rafters, in Oklahoma City forever.”
Westbrook helped lead the Thunder to nine playoff appearances, including four trips to the Western Conference finals and the 2012 NBA Finals.
The two-time All-Star Game MVP played for six other teams after leaving Oklahoma City, finishing his career last season with the Sacramento Kings. He is the NBA’s all-time leader with 209 triple-doubles.
(–Field Level Media)
