Russell Westbrook is starting off his eight season with the same stat-stuffing numbers that he had last season. As opposed to last year, his partner in crime Kevin Durant is healthy and even he admits Russ is currently the Thunder’s best player.
For those that say Westbrook isn’t a true point guard, he is currently leading the league in assists, 10.9 per game and 51.8 assist percentage, while lowering his usage rate and having his most efficient year (20.1 PER).
Celebrating his 27th birthday, the All-Star point guard has a lot to be thankful for. His health, his new marriage, and his many, many endorsements i.e Jordan Brand, True Religion, Mountain Dew, Subway, etc.
Drafted by the Seattle Supersonics, he never actually played there. Westbrook was there to start off his NBA career the same time as the Oklahoma City Thunder. A member of team Nike since his joining the league, he worked his way up the kicks game as he got better. Then three years ago he was recruited by MJ to be take over as the face of Jordan Brand – just as Dwyane Wade made the move to Li-Ning.
It was a smart move by Jordan since Wesbrook gets plenty of attention for his fashion and his desire to be involved in that industry when he’s off the court (hello Barneys). And really, Jordan shoes were amazing because they look good both on the court and off the court.
Nowadays you probably couldn’t shouldn’t wear a pair of Air Jordan XX9’s or Kobe’s with a tuxedo, although that probably won’t stop kids. Westbrook has both the on-court game and off-court aspirations that match up with the brand. The face of the brand not only wears the signature model but also has his lifestyle model, the Jordan Westbrook 0.
So happy birthday Westbook, continue to play fast and furiously. The big question is how does Russ not have a proper nickname yet?
Robbie Falchi
Mike Guillory
Sneaker History