Russell Westbrook is all set to enter the 17th season of his NBA career. Once again, Brodie will be seen in new colors as he signed with the Denver Nuggets during the offseason.
While Russ may no longer be at the peak of his career, he remains a terrific player in the right environment. Although the last few years haven't been kind to the former NBA MVP, Westbrook continues to give his best when he's on the court.
With that said, one may wonder how a 16-year-old veteran star who is a bit past the prime of his career navigates through the hurdles at this point in his career. Well, Brodie recently gave an answer to the same question.
Westbrook loves to play for his family and fans
There was a time when Russell was viewed as one of the best point guards in the league. However, since leaving the Houston Rockets in 2020, the general consensus around Westbrook has changed in the eyes of fans.
Russ went from being a beloved superstar to being burdened by fans with the failures of multiple franchises. Despite that, the Nuggets point guard said that the love for family and fans, alongside a secret third factor, gets him going.
"My family, my kids," Russ said during the NBA Abu Dhabi preseason games. "Honestly, it's probably the most important of this, allowing them to be able to see me at this level. One, and then, two, the fans. My supporters and people across the world that support me from day one. I'm grateful for all of them and grateful for their support. So that allows me to be able to keep pushing and keeping my head and keep competing and having fun."
The nine-time NBA All-Star loves to express himself through words and actions, which has led to some altercations with fans throughout his career. But does it bother Westbrook?
"Them too," Russ said excitedly about his haters motivating him.
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Westbrook explains why he will be successful with the Nuggets
In the last three seasons, Russell has played for the Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers. Despite playing for two powerhouses, Brodie didn't exactly leave a mark on the fans. For starters, the UCLA product was scapegoated for most of the Purple and Gold's failures during his stint. Russ averaged 17.4 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game for the Lake Show.
Conversely, Russell's numbers dropped to 12.2 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game when wearing the Clippers uniform. However, Westbrook did explain the reason behind his unsuccessful tenures with the aforementioned franchises.
The two-time NBA scoring champ believes his run with the Nuggets will be different, as he will be put in a unique position with the team. Can Westbrook help the organization win its second NBA title in three years? Fans will find out sooner rather than later.
Related: "A why-not signing" - Zach Lowe on the Nuggets' acquisition of Russell Westbrook
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