Remembering Russell Westbrook's Time With the Clippers After Surprise Retirement

When NBA fans were wondering where Russell Westbrook would play next season, the 37-year-old point guard announced his surprise retirement. In a three-and-a-half-minute video he posted on his social media accounts, Westbrook called it quits, ending an incredible NBA career.

Sometimes you don’t even know when you’ve already watched the end.

You had to be there. And now it’s over. pic.twitter.com/6YoOW8WyIV
— Russell Westbrook (@russwest44) August 12, 2026

Westbrook's Clippers Tenure Was a Success

A lot will be said about Westbrook's career. He was a polarizing player due to his playing style, but his dominance was undeniable. He was one of the most decorated players of his generation, winning an MVP, making nine All-Star appearances, and nine All-NBA teams. He came up short of the ultimate goal of winning an NBA championship, but he will forever be remembered as one of the most athletic and physical guards of all-time, as well as a triple-double machine.

Obviously, Westbrook will always be an Oklahoma City Thunder first. His jersey will be hanging in the rafters in no time. But he made an impact in every stop he has been in, including with the LA Clippers.

After Westbrook's time with the Los Angeles Lakers came to an end at the 2023 trade deadline, he was bought out by the Utah Jazz. He chose to sign with the Clippers to remain in LA and help them make a deep postseason run.

The Clippers weren't able to get over the hump with Westbrook on the roster. But Russ largely exceeded expectations during his time as a Clipper.

Especially in the 2023-24 season, Westbrook fully embraced his role off the bench and was one of the best sixth men in the entire league. He rediscovered himself as an elite and versatile defender, taking on tough assignments on a nightly basis. Offensively, it was the smallest role of his career, but he thrived as a playmaker. He was an important reason the Clippers won 51 games that season.

Unfortunately, as it has often been the case for the Clippers, the injury bug hit them in the playoffs. Kawhi Leonard was limited to two games in the first round, and the Clippers ended up losing to the Dallas Mavericks, 4-2.

That offseason, the Clippers traded Russ to the Jazz once again in exchange for Kris Dunn. He then landed on the Nuggets, followed by the Kings, where he ended his career.

He ideally would have wanted a different end to his career. Playing for the 22-60 Kings in his final season in the NBA was probably not what he had in mind for his illustrious career.

In every spot he has been in, Westbrook gave his all. He was almost always available, played as many minutes as he could handle, always played hard, and was a beloved teammate. This is true for his time with the Clippers as well, and it should be remembered when discussing Westbrook's legacy.

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