Russell Westbrook inspires rookies on and off the court
As MVP and a fashion icon, Russell Westbrook left his mark on the league. And, his game and wardrobe has earned the respect of the NBA’s next generation.
For the older OKC Thunder fans, it can be hard to believe Russell Westbrook is now a 10-year veteran in the NBA. It feels like only a few years ago when he was apart of a young core who could turn out to be a super team. But after a decade of triple-doubles, Westbrook is now the one rookies look up to.
A year before going fifth overall in the NBA draft, Oklahoma Sooner’s point guard Trae Young said his favorite player is Westbrook.
Even more than Wesbrook’s ability to play, Young said he admires his intensity and tries to do the same when he takes the floor. Young’s effort at the collegiate level earned him a spot in the league and some mutual respect.
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Young isn’t the only incoming rookie who admires Brodie. After being taken eighth overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers, Collin Sexton mentioned Westbrook to be one of his idols. And with Sexton’s length and quickness, he has a chance to mimic Westbrook’s style of play.
Thunder rookie Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has a chance to play like Brodie as well. Alexander is a lengthy 6-6 tall with a 6-11 wingspan and knows how to create scoring opportunities for himself. Like Westbrook,Gilgeous-Alexander is a tall guard who prefers to get to the rim. So shooting will be a work in progress. In the meantime, Alexander could pitch in on the defensive end and develop under Westbrook’s tutelage.
Although Gilgeous-Alexander’s game will take some time to develop, his sense of fashion may already be at Westbrook’s level. Many of the rookies sported interesting pieces on draft night, but Gilgeous-Alexander managed to stand out from the rest with his floral design.
Related: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander offers elite role player potential
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the newest member of the Austrian singing group, The Family Von Trapp. Somewhere, curtains are missing. #soundofmusic #julieandrews pic.twitter.com/fLphPWf18w
— Jay Bilas (@JayBilas) June 21, 2018
His suit on draft night was just beginning, it will be interesting to see what else he comes up channeling Westbrook as a source of inspiration.