The Thunderous Intentions writing team continues our OKC Thunder roundtable sessions reaching a sentimental segment dedicated to Russell Westbrook.
With the 12th season of the OKC Thunder franchise days away from tipoff to say this year feels different would be the greatest understatement ever. That’s because the player who became synonymous with the franchise isn’t here.
There won’t be any seated dancing, or running to the side of the Peake with a hand cupped to an ear from the Brodie. Nope — he’s now wearing Rockets red and realigned with his middle school buddy James Harden.
Yes, since early July it’s been a difficult time of transition for the Thunder fanbase. And, that’s fair. After all, Russell Westbrook wasn’t just a player who donned the Thunder jersey. He became part of the community. His wife Nina opened a store (The Little Ark) and the couple welcomed three children; son Noah, plus twin girls Skye and Jordyn while living in OKC.
When Westbrook said he grew up with the Thunder the funny side point to this is many of us grew up with him! This is a new era in Oklahoma City and one fans should embrace as it’s an opportunity to return to those early days of the franchise with young rising stars.
Still, the loss of Russell Westbrook isn’t something that will just dissipate. The pain of losing him is fading for most of us. But, he’ll never be totally forgotten, nor should he be.
To that end, the Thunderous Intentions writing team dives into a sentimental segment of the roundtable sessions as we pay homage to the player, the man, and superstar.