Russell Westbrook is giving a new meaning to the word sacrifice

By Hamzah Amir Ahmed

Russell Westbrook hits a major milestone (Image: Getty Images)

Los Angeles Clippers guard, Russell Westbrook, became the 25th player in NBA history to reach 25,000 points. The former MVP scored 23 points as he helped the Clippers to a 136-125 win over the Detroit Pistons. Westbrook also had nine assists to go along with his impressive scoring total.

Westbrook reached the mark on his final two points, a running lay-up with two minutes and 44 seconds left on the clock. He joins his teammate, James Harden, on the list of players to reach this incredible feat.

Westbrook driving to the basket in the second half past Jaden Ivey to score his 25,000th career point (Image: Getty Images)

After the game, the nine-time all-star said: “I’m so grateful to be on this team. I don’t take any of this for granted.”

After a poor stint in the purple and gold, many believed that Westbrook’s title hopes were over, but his now teammate, Paul George, has always vouched for Westbrook. George and Westbrook were teammates at the Oklahoma City Thunder for two seasons before the former left and joined LA. During the two seasons, the duo were a formidable force and had excellent chemistry.

Last February, following a defeat to the Milwaukee Bucks, George commented on potential trades, he said: “If there’s somebody out there – Russell.” Not long after making those comments, George got his wish. It was announced that Westbrook would be joining the Clippers from the Utah Jazz. Since his arrival, Westbrook has had a profound impact on the Clippers both on and off the court.

Westbrook’s display in the Clippers’ first-round playoff series against the Phoenix Suns last season validated their decision to bring him back to Los Angeles. Although the series ended in a 4-1 defeat, Westbrook was the only silver lining as he averaged 23.6 points, 7.6 rebounds and 7.4 assists.

At the start of the season, there were many questions about whether this Clippers team could function. Despite the substantial criticism, the Clippers’ ownership decided to trade for James Harden in October. Initially, this trade was not received well as Harden had just forced his way out of Philadelphia and the idea of a star-studded Clippers team was seen as a recipe for disaster.

Following a six-game losing streak last November, Westbrook volunteered to come off the bench. Speaking to the media prior to the team’s win over the Houston Rockets, head coach Ty Lue, called Westbrook’s decision the ultimate sacrifice for a player of his calibre.

Russell Westbrook celebrates on the bench during the game against the New York Knicks on December 16, 2023 (Image: Getty Images)

Since his sacrifice, the Clippers have been on a roll. In their last 10 games, they have won eight and hold one of the best records in the league with 32 wins and 15 defeats. Westbrook has been the selfless leader this team has needed. His adjustment has made him the hero of the roster and his selflessness has transformed the Clippers into true title contenders.