Russell Westbrook is the undisputed leader of the Oklahoma City Thunder, now. Having just signed an extension to remain under contract for at least two more years, Westbrook is ready to lead the franchise in its post-Kevin Durant days.
Westbrook has always been a divisive player. Many hate him for his wild play and attitude. Many more love him for the same reasons. Thunder fans, especially, have grown a fondness for their point guard. Even the mayor of Oklahoma City has initiated a Russell Westbrook Day to commemorate their star.
But fans are not the only ones to have taken notice of Westbrook’s passionate play. At a Jordan Brand event, a short film introduced the new Air Jordan XXX1. The film featured clips from Michael Jordan and Westbrook, who is set to be the primary endorser of the shoe.
One notable aspect of the film was Jordan’s ultimate praise for Westbrook, as told by Russ Bengston of Complex:
“Thirty years ago, that’s me,” he said of Westbrook. “The attitude, trying to prove myself, showing so much passion for the game of basketball. You see it in his play. You can tell he loves the game, he plays with energy and flair.”
Being compared to the greatest basketball player of all time by the greatest basketball player of all time has to feel pretty good. Apparently, Westbrook was left speechless:
“That’s crazy,” he told us during his interview. “I really don’t know what to say. To have the best player who ever played the game to say that about you as a player and as a person is something that is going to keep me striving.”
Westbrook is the unquestioned star and leader of a team, now. He will be faced with the challenge of leading a ragtag group of players into the playoffs and possibly even further.
Westbrook will have to bring out his inner-MJ to have a high level of success in OKC. He may be one of the only players in the league capable of doing so.
