Oklahoma City Thunder superstar point guard Russell Westbrook doesn't believe in small markets and says if you are playing at a high level, people will recognize who you are.

The subject of small markets came up when reporters were asking Russell Westbrook about Paul George and how he spurned the Los Angeles Lakers to remain in Oklahoma City:

Both Russell Westbrook and Paul George are two of the more recognizable athletes in the world. Westbrook is a walking triple-double and won the 2017 MVP award. George, meanwhile, is one of the best two-way forwards in the game, and his stock took off after he went head-to-head with LeBron James and the Miami Heat during the 2013 Eastern Conference Finals when PG was still with the Indiana Pacers.

Related NewsArticle continues below
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) shoots in the third quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves during game two of the western conference finals for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Paycom Center.
Paul Pierce’s savage reaction to Thunder’s 2-0 lead vs Timberwolves
Jalen Williams Adidas James Harden sneakers, Adidas Harden Vol. 9
Thunder’s Jalen Williams is releasing his own Adidas James Harden sneakers

Westbrook has a shoe endorsement deal with Jordan Brand, while George is with Nike.

George's decision to re-sign with the Thunder shocked many considering he is from California and was linked to joining the Lakers for years. However, Russell Westbrook and the Thunder did a great job of selling George on a future in OKC, and PG-13 reportedly loves playing with Westbrook.

Los Angeles has the bright lights, but the Thunder are the main sports attraction in Oklahoma City and get a lot of attention.