Still Got It: NBA Star Blasts Fans for Disrespecting Russell Westbrook as Legend Remains Unsigned
With NBA training camps about to begin, one of the league’s most accomplished veterans — Russell Westbrook — remains unsigned. Despite a strong season coming off the bench for the Denver Nuggets, the 36-year-old future Hall of Famer is still waiting for a new opportunity after declining his player option earlier this offseason.
Westbrook averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds across 75 games for Denver last season, earning respect as a high-energy reserve and finishing seventh in Sixth Man of the Year voting. While his trademark explosiveness has understandably declined with age, his playmaking, rebounding, and leadership remain assets for any team in need of bench production.
Former Nuggets teammate Michael Porter Jr. recently came to Westbrook’s defense, speaking out against the criticism the veteran has faced in recent years — particularly during his rocky stint with the Los Angeles Lakers alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. On The Justin Laboy Show, Porter reflected on the surreal experience of playing with someone he idolized growing up during Westbrook’s Oklahoma City Thunder prime.
“I looked up to Russ in a lot of ways,” Porter said. “KD and him — that was the team I watched. It was dope getting to know Russ. He’s a fierce competitor.”
Porter also acknowledged the challenges Westbrook has faced adapting to a reserve role after years as a perennial All-Star but praised his dedication and work ethic.
“He can still move — he’s just older. But every day, he’s in the gym getting shots up, doing his thing.”
While many fans have been quick to write Westbrook off, Porter’s comments serve as a reminder of the respect the veteran continues to command among peers — and that he still has something to offer in the right role.
