Russell Westbrook Contract

Russell Westbrook has been a popular name within the NBA for fifteen seasons at this point. The 6’ 3” Point Guard is synonymous with explosive athleticism and scoring on the basketball court. From his early days in college to becoming one of the most dominant scorers after turning pro, Westbrook's time within the most esteemed professional Basketball league has been nothing short of remarkable.

Growing up in Long Beach, California, he picked up a never-fading passion for Basketball. He attended Leuzinger High School where he showcased exceptional determination to be the best player on the team. In his senior year of high school, Westbrook averaged 25 points, eight rebounds, and three steals and helped his team to one of its best seasons that year with 25 wins.

Having made it to UCLA, Westbrook established himself as one of the top players in college basketball in two years. With impressive averages of 12.7 points and 4 assists per game during his sophomore year, Westbrook developed into an undeniable talent.

Drafted by Oklahoma City Thunder

After two seasons at UCLA, Westbrook entered the 2008 NBA Draft and was picked fourth overall by the Seattle Supersonics, known today as the Oklahoma City Thunder. Entering the NBA marked a new phase in Westbrook’s Basketball career as he signed a four-year $16 Million deal which guaranteed him a 4 Million average salary per year.

Westbrook wasted no time making waves in professional basketball. As part of a young Thunder squad alongside Kevin Durant and James Harden, he steadily built up his game with impressive performances that left fans awestruck. His explosive style of play earned him multiple appearances in All-Star games starting in 2011.

The following year in 2012, Westbrook signed a lucrative five-year $78.5 Million rookie extension deal, earning him an average salary of $15.7 Million for the duration of the deal.

Westbrook decided to continue with Thunder in 2016 by agreeing to a three-year maximum extension that offered $85 Million.

Westbrook’s final deal with the Thunder was a staggering five-year $206 Million player extension which lasted till 2022.

In his time with a career with OKC, Russell Westbrook amassed numerous accolades which included his two scoring titles, multiple All-NBA team selections, the regular season MVP Award, and the All-Star game MVP award on separate occasions (2015, 2016). Westbrook even surpassed Oscar Robertson's record of 41 triple-doubles during the 2016-2017 campaign.

Signing with the Houston Rockets

After spending eleven seasons with the Thunder, Westbrook embarked on a new chapter in his career. In July 2019, he was traded to the Houston Rockets in exchange for Chris Paul and two future first-round draft picks.

This move reunited him with former teammate James Harden and it brought immense excitement among eager fans who wanted to see both the previously young talents playing together again.

Westbrook's time with the Rockets was marked by notable moments of brilliance but also dissatisfaction. His relentless style of play often led to unbelievable performances but also raised questions about efficiency and his role within the team. Nevertheless, his impact on the court remained undeniable.

Traded to the Wizards

Westbrook was traded the next year to the Washington Wizards where the point guard had a silent game-changing season by averaging 22 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 11.7 assists. This was his fourth season where he averaged a triple-double all season.

Going to Los Angeles

Joining the Lakers

Westbrook was again traded but this time to a playoff-hopeful Los Angeles Lakers team. After spending one complete season with the Lakers, he averaged 18.5 points, seven rebounds, seven assists, and one steal.

Westbrook returned with the Lakers in the 2022-23 season but after 52 games was again traded to the Utah Jazz. Fortunately, he and the Jazz reached a contract buyout agreement which allowed him to sign with the Lakers’ city rivals; the Clippers.

Signing with the Clippers

Westbrook had signed a one-year $785,000 deal with the Clippers at the time of his trade. Signing with the LA Clippers reunited him with his former OKC teammate Paul George. During the 2023 free agency, Westbrook re-signed with the Clippers for a two-year 8 Million deal.