Russell Westbrook apparently had an opportunity to extend his NBA career before deciding it was time to walk away.
The Washington Wizards offered Westbrook a two-year contract this summer, but the 37-year-old rejected the deal and ultimately chose retirement after 18 seasons in the league, according to Marc Stein of The Stein Line.
The reported offer came as Westbrook weighed his future following a season with the Sacramento Kings in which he remained a significant part of the rotation, starting 58 of his 64 appearances.
But a return to Washington likely would have looked very different from the role Westbrook held in Sacramento.
The Wizards have built a crowded backcourt around Trae Young, who landed a huge new contract this offseason and is expected to start at point guard. Washington also has several young players requiring minutes, including Kyshawn George, Bub Carrington and Tre Johnson.
No. 1 pick AJ Dybantsa is also expected to have the ball in his hands extensively as Washington continues building around its young core.
That potentially left Westbrook facing a reduced role centered more around providing experience and leadership to Washington’s younger players rather than playing the major minutes he has been accustomed to throughout his career.
Westbrook also had discussions about potentially returning to Sacramento, according to Stein. However, a reunion with the Kings likely would have placed him in a backup and mentoring role behind rookie Darius Acuff.
Instead, Westbrook decided to end one of the most decorated careers of his generation.
The former MVP walks away after 18 NBA seasons, having also earned nine All-NBA selections and two scoring titles.
Westbrook’s decision also means there won’t be a second stint in Washington. He previously spent the 2020-21 season with the Wizards, averaging 22.2 points, 11.5 rebounds and a league-leading 11.7 assists while helping the franchise reach the playoffs.
Despite having another NBA contract available, Westbrook ultimately chose to finish his career on his own terms rather than accept a smaller role.
His next major basketball honor now appears inevitable: induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
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