The Washington Wizards saw their season come to a bitter end on Wednesday, but star guard Russell Westbrook is keeping his chin up.
The Wizards lost to the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 5, 129-112 to bow out of the NBA Playoffs. Even without MVP candidate Joel Embiid, the Sixers walloped the listless Wizards. Still, Westbrook was proud of his team after the defeat. After all, they clawed their way to the postseason after slumping to a 17-32 record in April.
When Bradley Beal was out due to injuries, Westbrook almost singlehandedly carried the Wizards to victories. The former MVP said he did what he set out to do in his first season with the squad (via ESPN).
“I just wanted to come to a place and change the culture. Bring my energy, my leadership, and make the guys around here better. I feel like I was able to accomplish that.”
The mercurial Westbrook has been slammed by many for his supposedly individualistic approach to the game. But he has also repeatedly said he doesn't get bogged down by outside opinions. He averaged a triple-double for the fourth straight time and surpassed Oscar Robertson for most career triple-doubles, a record that seemed improbable to surpass.
Westbrook ended his season with guns ablaze, putting up 24 points, eight rebounds, and 10 assists against the Sixers in Game 5. It's worth noting as well that it was his first game at Wells Fargo Center since a fan dumped popcorn on him in Game 2.
After a failed one-season pitstop with the Houston Rockets, it seems Russell Westbrook likes where he's at right now, and the Wizards should take note.
Follow Us
Subscribe