NBA's Greatest Players in History: Russell Westbrook

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NBA's Greatest Players in History: Russell Westbrook

Russell Westbrook #0 of the Oklahoma City Thunder goes up for a shot against Chris Bosh #1 of the Miami Heat in the first half in Game Two of the 2012 NBA Finals at Chesapeake Energy Arena on June 14, 2012 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Photo: Larry W. Smith/Pool/Getty Images

Triple-Double King, MVP and explosive guard

NBA's all-time leader in triple-doubles
2016-17 NBA Most Valuable Player
Nine-time NBA All-Star and two-time All-Star Game MVP
Member of the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team

Russell Westbrook is a tenacious, record-breaking point guard known for his explosive athleticism, relentless competitiveness, and unparalleled ability to stuff the stat sheet.

Overview

Russell Westbrook's NBA career has been defined by his unparalleled intensity, athleticism, and statistical dominance. Since entering the league in 2008, Westbrook has rewritten the record books, most notably becoming the NBA's all-time leader in triple-doubles. His playing style is characterised by explosive speed, powerful drives to the basket, and an uncanny ability to contribute across multiple facets of the game.

Career snapshot

Westbrook's journey began when he was drafted 4th overall by the Seattle SuperSonics (soon to become the Oklahoma City Thunder) in 2008. He quickly established himself as one of the league's most dynamic young guards, forming a formidable partnership with Kevin Durant. Westbrook's ascent to superstardom was marked by his MVP season in 2016-17, where he became the first player since Oscar Robertson to average a triple-double for an entire season.

Russell Westbrook #0 of the Oklahoma City Thunder explodes for a dunk against Raymond Felton #20 of the Denver Nuggets in Game One of the Western Conference Quarterfinals in the 2011 NBA Playoffs on April 17, 2011 at the Ford Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Photo: Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images

Playing style

Westbrook's game is built on relentless aggression and athleticism. He attacks the rim with ferocity, using his explosive first step and leaping ability to finish over taller defenders. His court vision and passing skills, often overshadowed by his scoring, allow him to create opportunities for teammates. On the defensive end, Westbrook's quickness and strength make him a disruptive force, capable of generating steals and igniting fast breaks.

Why Russell Westbrook is on our list

Westbrook's inclusion among the NBA's most dominant players is justified by his unprecedented statistical achievements and his impact on the game. His ability to consistently record triple-doubles has redefined expectations for guard play in the modern NBA. Westbrook's MVP season in 2016-17 was a tour de force, as he averaged 31.6 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 10.4 assists per game, leading a team that had lost Kevin Durant to a playoff berth through sheer force of will.

Beyond the numbers, Westbrook's competitive fire and work ethic have set him apart. His relentless approach to the game has inspired teammates and earned respect from opponents. While his style has sometimes been criticised for its inefficiency, there's no denying the impact Westbrook has on every game he plays.

Five Fast Facts

Westbrook is the only player in NBA history to average a triple-double in four different seasons
He won the scoring title in 2014-15 and 2016-17
Westbrook has led the league in assists three times (2018, 2019, 2021)
He won a gold medal with Team USA at the 2012 London Olympics
Westbrook has recorded the most 20-point, 20-assist games in NBA history

Russell Westbrook #0 of the Los Angeles Clippers blocks a shot from Kyrie Irving #11 of the Dallas Mavericks during the first half of game three of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs at American Airlines Center on April 26, 2024 in Dallas, Texas. Photo: Sam Hodde/Getty Images

Career Highlights Timeline

2008: Drafted 4th overall by the Seattle SuperSonics (soon to become Oklahoma City Thunder)

2011: First NBA All-Star selection

2012: Reached NBA Finals with Oklahoma City Thunder, losing to Miami Heat

2015: Won first scoring title, averaging 28.1 points per game

2017: Named NBA Most Valuable Player after averaging a triple-double for the season

2019: Traded to Houston Rockets, reuniting with James Harden

2020: Traded to Washington Wizards

2021: Became NBA's all-time leader in triple-doubles, surpassing Oscar Robertson

2021: Traded to Los Angeles Lakers

Westbrook's career has been a rollercoaster of statistical milestones and highlight-reel plays. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways has made him one of the most unique and dominant players of his generation. While championship success has eluded him thus far, Westbrook's place in NBA history is secure.

His style of play has polarised opinions, with some lauding his unmatched intensity and others criticising his decision-making and efficiency. However, there's no denying that when Westbrook steps on the court, he commands attention and respect from everyone in the arena.

Off the court, Westbrook has shown a softer side, particularly in his community work and dedication to his family. This contrast with his on-court persona has endeared him to fans and shown the depth of his character.

As Westbrook's career continues, he remains a fascinating figure in the NBA landscape. His legacy as one of the most statistically dominant and athletically gifted players in league history is assured, regardless of future accomplishments. The Russell Westbrook experience has been one of the most thrilling and polarising in NBA history, making him an undeniable selection for any list of the league's most dominant players.