After an incredible eighteen seasons tearing up NBA courts, Russell Westbrook officially called it a career, announcing his retirement at 37 years old. The news dropped after what turned out to be his final run with the Sacramento Kings, where he teamed up with another 2010s era icon, DeMar DeRozan, for a season that ultimately led to the NBA draft lottery.
The “Realest” Farewell from a Fellow Icon
Westbrook leaves behind a legendary career, packed with personal and team accolades. While most fans will forever remember his explosive superstar days with the Oklahoma City Thunder, it was DeMar DeRozan, his Kings teammate from last season, who gave a heartfelt send-off. DeRozan kept it short and sweet, commenting on Westbrook’s retirement social media post with a powerful message: “One of the realest!!” It is a simple tribute, but coming from a guy who just shared the court with Westbrook in his final season, it definitely hits different. You have to wonder what those two discussed about the game and their legacies as the season wound down.
Ringless Legends and Polarizing Styles
There’s more connecting Westbrook and DeRozan than just that final Kings season. Both guys are famous for their high-volume stats and, notoriously, for remaining ringless throughout their careers. They both played a truly polarizing style of basketball that absolutely boosted their traditional numbers but, in a strange twist, was also often seen as a fault when it came to their playoff shortcomings. Westbrook’s decision-making led to some all-time blunders, no question. DeRozan, on the other hand, stuck to his mid-range game, even as the NBA shifted away from that area of the floor, almost making his style an old relic. Despite these criticisms, both players utterly commanded the hearts of their first fanbases: Thunder fans still see Westbrook as a basketball deity, and Toronto Raptors fans still hold a soft spot for DeRozan, even if his departure led to their sole championship. That loyalty speaks volumes about their impact.
Impact Beyond the Box Score
Even if Westbrook and DeRozan will combine for zero championship rings, you cannot deny the massive impact they had on the NBA’s 2010s era. They were both celebrity-level players, not just locally in their markets but on a national scale. It is fitting that Westbrook spent his final season with someone like DeRozan, a player who could truly sympathize with the way the game evolved past their old-school styles. DeRozan himself might not be far behind, having signed a one-year deal with the Denver Nuggets for what is presumed to be a Sixth Man role. When their playing days are officially over, both Westbrook and DeRozan are absolute no-brainers for the Basketball Hall of Fame. Their individual brilliance defined an era, and that’s a legacy that truly matters.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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