OKC Thunder Roundtable sessions: Homage to Russell Westbrook

Q4: It’s inevitable Westbrook’s jersey will be raised into the rafters – but should the franchise also erect a statue? If so what moment or action should it reflect?

Tamberlyn Richardson:

Certainly, Westbrook dunking will be under consideration, especially the one of his body stretched out horizontally. However, because the statue would be outside the arena I’m kind of partial to his patented move when he interacted with fans at Chesapeake running to the sideline and cupping his hand to his ear. That isn’t an athletic pose or one of an iconic moment but it would mean just as much to the community.

Rylan Stiles:

Of course, Russell Westbrook should, and absolutely will have a statue outside of the Ford Center, Chesapeake Energy Arena, or whatever we are going to be calling the palace on the prairie at that time. I want to pass a statue of the iconic Russell Westbrook moment of him celebrating “the flip shot” every time I enter the arena.

Noah Schulte:

There’s only one correct answer.

Aidan E:

Normally statues are erected for players who brought a championship to the team, but since Dominique Wilkins and John Stockton both have statues, I think it’s fair for Russ to get one. Personally, I would have him dunking.

Matthew Hallet:

All of the great pillars of society have statues and Westbrook certainly was a pillar of the community generally, but more specifically to integrating this franchise into the community. I will leave the action to those who create though.

Kevon Stewart:

I think his statue should be of his signature one-handed tomahawk dunk. This will always be etched in our memories forever. Statues are reserved for the most loyal and monumental players of a franchise. That is the embodiment of Russell Westbrook.

Tyler Barger:

When Russ broke the record for double-doubles in a season