Russell Westbrook ends talks with Wizards, chooses retirement from NBA
Bleacher Report • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 17, 2026, 11:00 AM
Last updated Aug 17, 2026
Russell Westbrook has reportedly decided to retire from the NBA after receiving a two-year contract offer from the Washington Wizards. The 37-year-old guard concluded discussions, finding the terms unappealing after recent reports about the Wizards' interest in bringing him back. Westbrook's decision follows his final season with the Sacramento Kings and reflects his preference for a dignified exit rather than accepting a reduced role. Fans have widely supported his choice, emphasizing respect for his career achievements, including being the all-time leader in triple-doubles.
- •Westbrook received a two-year offer from the Wizards before retirement.
- •He spent his final NBA season with the Sacramento Kings.
- •Fans expressed support for Westbrook rejecting the Wizards' offer.
- •Westbrook is the all-time leader in triple-doubles with 209.
- •He prioritizes his role and legacy over simply continuing to play.
- 6:45 PMBleacher Report — New Russell Westbrook Rumors Uncover Wizards' Contract Offer Before Star's NBA Retirement - Bleacher Report
- 11:00 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Better Than Trae Young Any Day,’ ‘Respect’ — NBA World Reacts As Insider Sheds Light on Russell Westbrook ‘Ending Talks’ With Wizards Ahead of Retirement
"Before deciding to walk away from the NBA last week, Russell Westbrook reportedly received a contract offer from the Washington Wizards for the upcoming season. However, the proposed opportunity ultimately failed to appeal to the veteran guard, and he chose to retire, a decision that received further support from fans after details of the Wizards’ offer emerged.
"The Washington Wizards were reportedly hot on the trail of veteran guard Russell Westbrook before he announced his retirement on Wednesday.
Sources
External links- Bleacher ReportAug 17, 2026, 6:45 PMNew Russell Westbrook Rumors Uncover Wizards' Contract Offer Before Star's NBA Retirement - Bleacher Report
The Washington Wizards were reportedly hot on the trail of veteran guard Russell Westbrook before he announced his retirement on Wednesday.
- Yahoo SportsAug 17, 2026, 11:00 AM‘Better Than Trae Young Any Day,’ ‘Respect’ — NBA World Reacts As Insider Sheds Light on Russell Westbrook ‘Ending Talks’ With Wizards Ahead of Retirement
Before deciding to walk away from the NBA last week, Russell Westbrook reportedly received a contract offer from the Washington Wizards for the upcoming season. However, the proposed opportunity ultimately failed to appeal to the veteran guard, and he chose to retire, a decision that received further support from fans after details of the Wizards’ offer emerged.
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