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Russell Westbrook announces retirement after 18 NBA seasons

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 12, 2026, 9:54 PM

Last updated Aug 12, 2026

Russell Westbrook announces retirement after 18 NBA seasons

Summary

Russell Westbrook has officially announced his retirement from the NBA via social media. The former Los Angeles Lakers point guard concluded his career after 18 seasons, including a brief stint with the Lakers where he averaged 18.5 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.1 assists in one full season. Westbrook, a nine-time All-Star, played for seven teams and is remembered for his time with the Thunder, where he won the MVP award in 2017. His tenure with the Lakers included struggles in fitting with the team's style of play and minimal starting opportunities during the 2022-23 season. Westbrook ended his career without an NBA championship, which impacts his legacy.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Westbrook played 130 games for the Lakers before finishing with the Clippers.
•He was drafted by the Seattle Supersonics before their move to Oklahoma City.
•Westbrook averaged nearly a triple-double during his MVP-winning season.
•He is ranked as one of the league's best players without a championship.
•His retirement announcement was made on August 12, 2026.

Latest Updates

9:54 PMYahoo Sports — Polarizing Former Lakers Player Russell Westbrook Gives Shocking Announcement

What they're saying

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The Los Angeles Lakers were a polarizing team when Russell Westbrook came to the team. Now, he has made a big career announcement. The post Polarizing Former Lakers Player Russell Westbrook Gives Shocking Announcement appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Los Angeles Lakers New York Knicks Oklahoma City Thunder NBA Basketball