Thunder announce they’ll retire Russell Westbrook’s No. 0 jersey in February – Yahoo Sports

Oklahoma City Thunder to Retire Russell Westbrook’s No. 0 Jersey on Feb. 7

The Oklahoma City Thunder announced Monday they will retire Russell Westbrook’s No. 0 jersey during a home game against the New York Knicks on Feb. 7. General manager Sam Presti confirmed the decision at the Thunder’s Day One Luncheon, where Westbrook was present and visibly emotional.

Westbrook’s Legacy with the Thunder

Westbrook spent 11 seasons with the Thunder from 2008 to 2019, becoming the franchise’s all-time leader in games played (821), points (18,859), rebounds (5,760), assists (6,897), and steals (1,442). Drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics with the No. 4 pick in 2008, he was part of the team’s transition to Oklahoma City, which officially became the Thunder in 2008. His tenure included eight All‑Star selections, eight All‑NBA honors, and the 2016‑17 NBA MVP award, during which he averaged a historic triple‑double for the season.

Historic Achievements and Impact

Westbrook holds the NBA record for career triple‑doubles (209) and is the first player since Oscar Robertson to average a triple‑double for an entire season. During his time with the Thunder, the team reached the 2012 NBA Finals, made nine playoff appearances, and secured four Western Conference Finals berths. His 2016‑17 season, where he recorded 42 triple‑doubles, set an NBA record. Thunder chairman Clayton I. Bennett said, “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.”

Russell Westbrook's Number Retirement Ceremony

Westbrook, who retired in August after 18 NBA seasons, will have his No. 0 added to the Thunder’s retired numbers, joining Nick Collison’s No. 4. The team has not yet released additional details about the ceremony. 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.”

Westbrook’s Post‑Thunder Career

After being traded to the Houston Rockets in 2019, Westbrook played for the Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Lakers, LA Clippers, Denver Nuggets, and Sacramento Kings. He was named a member of the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021.

What’s Next for the Thunder?

The Feb. 7 ceremony will honor Westbrook’s jersey retirement.

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