Russell Westbrook may be one of the most beloved and accomplished players to ever don the blue, orange, and yellow threads, but, during Wednesday night's Game 2 of the Western Conference Semifinals, OKC Thunder fans need to make sure he feels unwelcome out at Paycom Center.
Frankly, such an act seems like something he's subliminally asking for.
Following Denver's shocking last-second victory in Monday's series opener, the former MVP talked about the home crowd out in Oklahoma City, specifically noting that he'll always be "indebted to these fans and the people here" for welcoming him into the community at such an early age and watching him evlolve as both a player and person for 11 years.
However, after praising the Sooner State residents and the franchise, Westbrook was found throwing a playful, tongue-in-cheek jab at the current state of Thunder fandom, as he called out those in attendance by saying that, though they made their presence felt, "it was louder when we was here."
Russell Westbrook subtly dares Thunder fans to get louder for Game 2
In an emotional turn of events, Westbrook proved to be a key difference-maker for the Nuggets in Game 1, providing his famous high-end energy levels and truly unrivaled attack motor throughout all of his 30 minutes of action while coming off the bench.
In turn, he would wrap up with night with 18 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists on 53.8 percent shooting from the field.
Playing through his debut season in Denver and first postseason run as a member of the organization, the 36-year-old seemingly finds himself rejuvenated following a string of up-and-down seasons out in Los Angeles with the Lakers and Clippers.
His rise back from the proverbial ashes has been so impressive, in fact, that former 20-year guard and three-time Sixth Man of the Year recipient, Jamal Crawford, has gone as far as to label Westbrook as the "biggest X-factor" still playing in the 2025 NBA Playoffs.
Ahead of Game 2, the Thunder will have their work cut out for them as they try to even this second-round series at 1-1 and avoid an 0-2 hole similar to the one the East's top-seeded Cavaliers find themselves in.
For them to accomplish such a feat, many adjustments need to be made, one of which, according to coach Mark Daigneault, is accounting for the fact that Westbrook is "gonna come in the game ready to rock."
Wednesday night, OKC will need to bring their A-game, and so, too, will their fans in attendance.