Russell Westbrook’s decision to extend his stay with the Oklahoma City Thunder continues to heap praises, a different pathway from others who have opted to follow the easy way to an NBA title plus money route.
Westbrook’s decision to sign an extension with the Thunder came as a surprise to many seeing he stands to be among the top free agents in 2017. Prior to the signing, the belief was that general manager Sam Presti was weighing his options with a trade involving the scoring guard expected to happen this season.
All that trade rumor belief is doused with Westbrook opting to sign an extension for the next three years. The new deal is reportedly worth about $85.7 million with the final year being a player option, ESPN reported.
No place like Oklahoma
Unlike Kevin Durant, Westbrook made an early decision that shocked many. Westbrook justified his move saying there was no other place he would rather be in, a place that supported him through good and bad times. "There's no need to wait if you know where you want to be."
The Modern Day Michael Jordan
Westbook’s move is a rare one in the NBA these days. Hard as it may sound, most players these days look at money and NBA ring as a priority. LeBron James and Kevin Durant have been criticized for such, shunning loyalty and teaming up with other superstars to achieve that.
NBA legend Michael Jordan is one of the rare breeds to work for their way to the top. Weighing in on Westbrook’s move, he said that was him thirty years ago, Complex Sports reported.
"The attitude, trying to prove myself. Showing so much passion for the game of basketball. You see it in his play. You can tell he loves the game. He plays with energy and flair." Westbrook thus typifies a player who is “BUILT NOT BOUGHT”, a rare breed that only a select few NBA cagers consider these days.