Russell Westbrook announced his retirement from the NBA on Wednesday, ending an 18-year career that included an MVP award, nine All-NBA selections, two scoring championships and will ultimately lead him to basketball’s Hall of Fame.
Westbrook broke the news himself in a social-media video narrated by actor Michael B. Jordan, surprising many in the league who thought he would eventually sign with a team for at least one more season ahead of training camp.
Some of the NBA’s biggest stars, former teammates and rivals of Westbrook — and teams themselves — praised the relentless guard on social media in the wake of the news.
“Incredible career, brother. You made people around the world feel your presence and love for the game. There are not a lot of people who played harder than you.” — Giannis Antetokounmpo
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What a career — Michael Phelps
Salute! Legend on and off the floor. Keep inspiring the youth. — Tobias Harris
