Russell Westbrook has officially signed with the Denver Nuggets and recently opened up about why he chose to join forces with Nikola Jokic and the reigning champions.
This NBA offseason has been full of surprising moves, with one of the most notable being Westbrook’s decision to leave the Los Angeles Clippers for the Denver Nuggets. Alongside Klay Thompson’s major trade to the Dallas Mavericks, Westbrook’s move to Denver sent shockwaves across the league.
As the NBA’s all-time triple-double leader, Westbrook’s addition to the Nuggets has generated excitement. He recently shared what drove him to team up with Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray as they chase another championship.
Speaking to the media for the first time as a Nugget on Thursday, September 26, Westbrook emphasized the key factor behind his decision. “It’s the culture. From the outside looking in, this team has consistently been at the top of the Western Conference,” Westbrook explained.
“They’re always in the hunt for a championship and play the right brand of basketball,” he added. “At this point in my career, I want to play the right way, no matter the outcome. Playing proper basketball allows everyone to get involved.”
In an interview with The Denver Post, Nuggets guard Christian Braun praised Westbrook, a 9-time NBA All-Star. “I’ve always been a fan of his game,” Braun shared. “I admired his game growing up, and I still do now.”
Braun also discussed what Westbrook brings to the team. “His energy, his tenacity—those are things every team needs. He’s always attacking, being aggressive, and playing tough.
I know he’ll bring a lot of positive energy to the team. He’s someone who plays with hunger and passion.”
