Russell Westbrook has always been a fan favorite — for the supporters of the teams that he's played for, that is. When it comes to opposing fans, however, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar has been known to play a more villainous role.

This is exactly why Russ was taken aback by the surprising number of Lakers supporters in Tuesday's away game against the San Antonio Spurs. By his own admission, Westbrook said that having so many fans cheering him on during a road game was something that was new to him (h/t Spectrum SportsNet on Twitter):

Westbrook responded to the adoring supporters in the best way possible. Along with Anthony Davis, Russ led the Lakers to a hard-fought win over the Spurs. The former league MVP produced undoubtedly his best performance for LA thus far with a typically jaw-dropping 33-point, 10-rebound, and eight-assist statline.

Article Continues Below
Related News
timberwolves, Nickeil Alexander-Walker
1 player Minnesota Timberwolves must trade in 2025 offseasonGarrett Kerman ·
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick reacts to his team losing the lead to the Minnesota Timberwolves late in the fourth quarter during game four of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Target Center.
Lakers’ JJ Redick link up with Les Snead at Rams campMiguel La Torre ·
image thumbnail
Sources: Lakers split on trading core playersAnthony Irwin ·
Lakers' Rob Pelinka with a Lakers logo in the middle Mavs Center Daniel Gafford on one side, Nets center Nic Claxton on the other. Question marks around them.
Sources: ‘Extremely active’ Lakers looking to add multiple bigs on trade marketAnthony Irwin ·
Cleveland Cavaliers center Shaquille O'Neal (33) being defended by Chicago Bulls center Brad Miller (52) during the second quarter in game four of the first round of the 2010 NBA playoffs at the United Center.
Former Laker Shaq, Brad Miller recreate brawl photo 23 years laterZachary Howell ·
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) talks with his coach during a stoppage in play against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second quarter during game four of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Target Center.
Lakers rumors: LeBron James’ ‘likely’ $52.6 million contract decisionPreston Byers ·

Fellow Lakers newcomer Malik Monk echoed Westbrook's thoughts after the game:

The Lakers are arguably the most popular team in the entire league and they have tons of supporters from not only across the country but around the globe as well. Russell Westbrook definitely fits the bill as a superstar on a high-profile team so, at this point, he better get used to being cheered during road games.