Russell Westbrook might have retired from the NBA this offseason, but the Oklahoma City Thunder aren’t wasting any time honoring a legend. The organization announced they intend to retire Westbrook’s No. 0, ensuring no player will ever wear that number again for the franchise, a move that subtly ties into the SuperSonics’ storied past.
The MVP’s Legacy Goes Up in the Rafters
Get ready to mark your calendars, because Westbrook’s No. 0 will officially be retired on February 7, when the Thunder host the New York Knicks. This is huge for Thunder fans, considering Westbrook was the very first pick in Oklahoma City Thunder history, snatched up fourth overall in the 2008 NBA Draft. He then spent an incredible 11 seasons with the organization, absolutely tearing it up. During his time, Westbrook led the team to four Western Conference Finals appearances and even one NBA Finals. The dude was a force of nature, leading the NBA in points twice and assists three times. And let’s not forget his MVP season in 2016-17, when he averaged a triple-double for the first time in three straight seasons!
More Than Just Numbers: A Shared Past with Seattle
While Westbrook’s honor is undeniably special for Thunder fans, the context of retired numbers for the franchise is pretty wild. The Thunder now have eight numbers retired overall. But here’s the kicker: only Nick Collison was honored specifically for his play with Oklahoma City. Six other numbers were retired for players who were members of the Seattle SuperSonics! Think about that history. Plus, Bill Russell’s No. 6 is retired league-wide. Before Westbrook arrived and before the franchise moved, the SuperSonics actually had just one previous player wear the No. 0, though two players rocked No. 00. Now, with Westbrook’s No. 0 going up, it truly sets a new standard for that specific digit in franchise history.
Westbrook’s stats with the Thunder speak for themselves. In 11 seasons, he averaged 23.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, 8.4 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, shooting 43.4% from the field, 30.8% from three, and 80.1% from the free-throw line. He holds the Thunder franchise record for points with a staggering 18,859 and for triple-doubles with 138. To put that in perspective, he’s got 124 more triple-doubles than Gary Payton, who sits in second place for that stat in franchise history.
This February 7th ceremony isn’t just about celebrating a single player, it’s about acknowledging a pivotal part of the franchise’s journey, linking current history with its roots in Seattle. It’s going to be an emotional night when that No. 0 banner finally joins the others, including those honoring the SuperSonics legends.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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