Thunder in the news: Russell Westbrook wins MVP
By Tony Heim
Thunder in the news keeps track of everything going on with the OKC Thunder. You already know what we’re taking about today.
It’s official. Russell Westbrook is the Most Valuable Player of the National Basketball Association.
Russ’ top moments from the season
It truly was an exhausting experience watching Russ play basketball this year. He made incredible plays on the court and petty actions off the court, all while doing it for the fans that love him more than any other NBA star/fan base in the league. Royce Young from ESPN breaks down all the highlights.
"What will likely endure from Russell Westbrook’s 2016-17 season is the history — the relentless assault on two NBA marks that seemed unreachable and unthinkable: putting up 42 triple-doubles in a season while averaging one throughout. But what Westbrook’s season, and MVP campaign, was about was the moments. Unlike his closest competition, Westbrook didn’t have an MVP moment or two. He filled an entire portfolio."
Russ’ speech shows the world his true side
The best part about Russ winning this award and having this spotlight was the rest of the world seeing “Human Russ.” People judge him for his actions on the court, failing to see the genuine, fun-loving man that he is. Tim Cato from SB Nation agrees.
"Westbrook described how his brother Raynard texts him at halftime of every single game he has ever played and his wife Nina is the person who sticks with him through everything.This is what the NBA does best: it allows its athletes to be emotional, approachable humans. Westbrook had a beautiful speech, earnestly thanking those who helped push him to this moment, and this really was a great moment."
Thunder fans said it best
For all the national attention Westbrook received, it’s the OKC Thunder fans who were truly happy for the Brodie. No writers were able to capture the emotions this moment meant for us, well except Thunderous Intentions’ own Jeremy Lambert. Read it. Be happy knowing the MVP calls OKC home.
"Next week, on July 4, Westbrook will sign the triple-double contract that keeps him in Oklahoma City for the next decade. Days later, Oklahoma City will throw the biggest party ever. It’ll put the Cleveland parade to shame. Westbrook will show up wearing snakeskin everything, including a backpack. The event will be catered by Gigi’s Cupcakes. They’ll even put little rings on top to symbolize how easy it is. “LOYALTY.” by Kendrick Lamar will be on repeat."
Congrats Russ. Thanks for making this season so enjoyable for us.