No one would have expected Russell Westbrook to break Oscar Robertson’s triple-double record way back in 2017. Years after, though, the Milwaukee Bucks legend has stepped up to defend the Denver Nuggets guard after all the hate directed at him.
February 20, 2022; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; NBA great Oscar Robertson is honored for being selected to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team during halftime in the 2022 NBA All-Star Game at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Robertson has strongly criticized the Los Angeles Clippers and other franchises over their treatment of Westbrook. Also known as The Big O, the Bucks icon expressed his frustration with the way Westbrook has been handled by teams throughout his illustrious career.
Feb 17, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Former basketball players Julius Erving (left) and Oscar Robertson (right) attend NBA All Star Saturday Night at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
The NBA legend who was a pioneering force for player empowerment and one of the greatest all-around players in NBA history, believes Westbrook has been unfairly maligned and scapegoated by various organizations. He argued that Westbrook’s impact goes far beyond just numbers and statistics, as he brings an unparalleled energy, leadership, and a winning mentality to any team he plays for.
The Clippers’ recent decision to part ways with Westbrook after acquiring him in a trade has further fueled Robertson’s outrage. He believes Los Angeles did Westbrook a disservice by not giving him a proper opportunity to contribute and showcase his unique skillset to the team and its fans.
He emphasized that Westbrook’s relentless work ethic and unwavering commitment to the game of basketball should be respected and celebrated by the league and its franchises. He believes teams should strive to build around players like Westbrook rather than quickly discarding them when things don’t go as planned or when they face a bout of adversity.
Milwaukee Bucks Legend Oscar Robertson Defends Russell Westbrook From Haters
Feb 18, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; NBA legend Oscar Robertson waves to the crowd during the 73rd NBA All Star game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
The past few years have certainly been tough for Westbrook. In an article by Joey Linn for Sports Illustrated, Robertson had a few words of support for the former MVP.
“For some strange reason, I don’t know why they want to keep blaming everything that happens on him,” Robertson said of Westbrook. “When he plays he is dynamic, he gives the team a spark. Then all of a sudden they don’t care for him, they don’t want him.”
The Hall of Famer’s strong words highlight the need for more player-centric decision-making in the NBA and a greater appreciation for the intangible qualities that players like Westbrook bring to the table. Robertson argued that teams should focus on maximizing the talents of their players rather than constantly criticizing and undermining them.
Feb 18, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Western Conference forward LeBron James (23) of the Los Angeles Lakers greets former professional basketball player Oscar Robertson before the 73rd NBA All Star game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Robertson’s passionate defense of Westbrook serves as a reminder that the NBA should value the contributions of all players, not just the statistical superstars. By fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding, the league can unlock the full potential of its athletes and create a more fulfilling and rewarding experience for everyone involved.
February 20, 2022; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; NBA great Oscar Robertson is honored for being selected to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team during halftime in the 2022 NBA All-Star Game at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
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