Russell Westbrook's wristband honors best friend throughout career
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 17, 2026, 5:50 PM
Last updated Aug 17, 2026
Russell Westbrook retired on August 17, 2026, after a notable 18-year NBA career. He consistently wore two wristbands during games, one of which honored his late childhood friend, Khelcey Barrs III. The two had a pact to play together at UCLA and reach the NBA, but Barrs died tragically at age 16. Westbrook, who evolved from a little-known recruit to a basketball star, played the entirety of his career carrying the legacy of both his own and Barrs’ aspirations.
- •Westbrook wore wristbands labeled 'KB3' and 'Why Not?'
- •He retired after 18 seasons with seven NBA teams.
- •Khelcey Barrs III was Westbrook's best friend and aspiring teammate.
- •Barrs died from an undiagnosed heart condition in 2004.
- •Westbrook averaged 25 points per game during his junior year at UCLA.
- 5:50 PMYahoo Sports — Why Russell Westbrook wore 'KB3' wristband during entire NBA career
"Throughout his 18-year NBA career, UCLA alumnus Russell Westbrook wore two wristbands during every game, with one of them in honor of his late friend.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
BasketballNBA•Oct 4, 2026, 2:47 PMGood Morning, #Illini Nation: Vaaks gained unique experience this summer
NBA•Oct 4, 2026, 2:28 PMNBA executive: 'There's definitely interest' in Bronny James around the league
NBA•Oct 4, 2026, 2:14 PMSixers' LeBron James discusses playing in upcoming preseason schedule
NBA•Oct 4, 2026, 2:01 PMZiaire Williams asks his girlfriend to marry him at Bruno Mars concert
NBA•Oct 4, 2026, 1:26 PM3 Questions For Rockets Preseason Opener In Macao
NBA•Oct 4, 2026, 1:11 PMStephen Curry Stares at Potential Goodbye as Warriors Remain Unmoved About Free Agent Seth Curry