Kevin Durant paid tribute to Russell Westbrook after his former Oklahoma City Thunder teammate retired from the NBA following an 18-year career. Durant recalled Westbrook’s preparation, competitiveness and influence while describing him as a player who led more through his actions than his words.
Durant shared a story about Westbrook’s training habits, explaining that he once asked assistant coach Mo Cheeks whether it was more difficult to work out before or after practice. Durant had typically trained after practice, while Westbrook was already finished with his morning workout by the time Durant arrived at the gym.
“Mo like, ‘coming in before practice is probably harder’…since then, it’s been my routine,” Durant wrote.
Durant also challenged the perception of Westbrook’s emotional presence on the court. While Westbrook became known for his intensity and visible reactions during games, Durant said his former teammate was actually “quiet and methodical” away from the spotlight.
“He lead 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.”
Westbrook announced his retirement on August 12 at age 37, ending a career that began with the Thunder after Oklahoma City selected him fourth overall in the 2008 NBA Draft. He spent his final NBA season with the Sacramento Kings and Washington Wizards before deciding to retire despite receiving contract offers this offseason.
Durant and Westbrook spent eight seasons together in Oklahoma City, reaching the NBA Finals in 2012 when both were in their early 20s. They also shared All-Star appearances and experienced injuries, playoff runs and the daily routine of NBA travel together.
“The first YNs, finals run in our early 20s, all star games, seeing each other get injured and bounce back, the bus rides, plane rides, card games, jokes and arguments, the whole thing, memorable!!” Durant wrote.
Westbrook finishes his career as the NBA’s all-time leader in triple-doubles with 209. He also recorded the league’s single-season record of 42 triple-doubles during his 2016-17 MVP campaign.
The nine-time All-Star and nine-time All-NBA selection ranks fifth in NBA history with 10,351 assists and 14th with 27,176 points. He also won an Olympic gold medal with Team USA in 2012 and was named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.
Durant’s message extended beyond their time as teammates, recognizing Westbrook’s family and the people who supported him throughout his career.
“Keep inspiring in the next phase of life champ,” Durant wrote. “I don’t care what happens, can’t erase what it was.”
Westbrook retires without an NBA championship, but his statistical records and longevity place him among the most accomplished players of his generation. His 18 seasons, 209 triple-doubles and 2017 MVP award form the statistical foundation of a career Durant described as impossible to erase.
