The Oklahoma City Thunder will retire Russell Westbrook’s No. 0 jersey on February 7, 2027, team executive Sam Presti announced Monday at the Oklahoma City National Memorial’s Day One Luncheon.
Westbrook, who received the 2026 Oklahoma Standard Award at the event, spent 11 seasons with the franchise after arriving in Oklahoma City at age 19 in 2008.
Westbrook, who retired this past summer, used the occasion to reflect on the city’s influence on his life and the responsibility he feels to help others. He credited Oklahoma’s support with giving him confidence during his early years in the NBA.
“You guys welcomed me with open arms,” Westbrook said. “The entire state of Oklahoma, you guys gave me ultimate confidence that I can do anything, that I can go out and play and be the best version of myself.”
He added that the support continued during difficult moments and was something he could never repay.
Westbrook also discussed how he views his legacy beyond basketball statistics. The former NBA MVP said his platform gives him an opportunity to inspire people and make a positive impact.
“Yes, the triple-doubles, all the things, the stats. To me, it’s great,” he said. “But the legacy to me is the biggest part of what you can do with this sport is to be able to use what you have to help and inspire other people and use it to positively impact them in their own lives.”
That approach also shapes his Why Not? Foundation, which focuses on education, mental health and workforce development. Westbrook explained that the motto dates back to his high school years in South Central Los Angeles and helped him develop confidence through adversity.
“Why not is my motto,” he said. “It’s been like that since high school.”
Westbrook said giving back was instilled in him by his parents, adding that it is not limited to financial contributions.
“Giving back is not just about the money you give. It’s about the time, the emotional support,” he said. “Just being supportive, being there for somebody is very important.”
Westbrook averaged 23.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 8.4 assists in 821 regular-season games for Oklahoma City. He earned eight All-Star selections and eight All-NBA honors with the Thunder, won the 2016-17 MVP award and averaged a triple-double in three consecutive seasons.
Oklahoma City reached the NBA Finals in 2012 and four Western Conference finals during his tenure. Westbrook retired in 2026 after averaging 15.2 points, 5.4 rebounds and 6.7 assists in 64 games with Sacramento.
When asked what Oklahoma City means to him, Westbrook answered: “Everything.” He said the city changed the trajectory of his life after he arrived from Los Angeles as a teenager.
Presti said the jersey retirement recognizes more than Westbrook’s achievements on the court, citing his character, commitment and what he represents.
Westbrook thanked Presti and the organization after hearing the announcement, saying he was grateful and excited to share the ceremony with his family and friends.
