The Oklahoma City Thunder will honor one of the greatest players in franchise history by retiring Russell Westbrook’s No. 0 jersey on February 7, when the team faces the New York Knicks at Paycom Center.
The ceremony will recognize Westbrook’s remarkable contributions to the franchise and his lasting connection with Oklahoma City. His jersey will become just the second number retired by the Thunder.
Westbrook announced his retirement in August after an outstanding 18-season NBA career, including 11 seasons with Oklahoma City.
Thunder Chairman Clayton I. Bennett praised the former MVP for his influence beyond basketball.
“We are incredibly proud to retire Russell’s number. Russell made a lasting mark on the city and state during his time with the team, and his involvement in the community has endured long after,” Bennett said.
“We are deeply grateful for his genuine care for the people of Oklahoma, and he will always be considered a member of the Oklahoma City community.”
Selected fourth overall in the 2008 NBA Draft, Westbrook became one of the most influential figures in Thunder history.
He finished his Oklahoma City career as the franchise leader in several major statistical categories, including points (18,859), assists (6,897), rebounds (5,760), steals (1,442) and games played (821).
Thunder General Manager Sam Presti highlighted Westbrook’s determination and the legacy he established.
“Many players make an impact but only great players leave a legacy. Russell Westbrook’s legacy was built both on the court and in the community,” Presti said.
“His mindset was relentless, his commitment deep. For all those reasons, Oklahomans consider him one of their own and his number will be raised to the rafters, in Oklahoma City forever.”
During Westbrook’s 11 seasons, Oklahoma City reached the playoffs nine times, appeared in four Western Conference Finals and advanced to the 2012 NBA Finals.
His greatest individual achievement came during the 2016-17 season, when he won the NBA MVP award after averaging 31.6 points, 10.7 rebounds and 10.4 assists per game.
He became only the second player in NBA history to average a triple-double across an entire season, recording a then-record 42 triple-doubles that year.
Westbrook retired with an NBA-record 209 career triple-doubles. His achievements also include nine All-NBA selections, nine All-Star appearances and two scoring titles.
Named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021, Westbrook leaves behind a remarkable basketball legacy.
The February ceremony will permanently recognize his place in Oklahoma City history, with his No. 0 jersey set to hang above the court where he became a franchise icon.
