NBA star Russell Westbrook retires, ending one of basketball’s most unique careers

Marcus D. Smith

USA TODAY Network

Aug. 12, 2026, 3:12 p.m. ET

Russell Westbrook is calling it a career after 18 NBA seasons.

Westbrook announced his retirement from basketball in a video posted to his Instagram account on Wednesday, Aug. 12.

Westbrook finished his career as the all-time leader in triple-doubles with 209 in his storied career.

He entered the NBA after being selected out of UCLA with the No. 4 overall pick by the Seattle SuperSonics, who shortly after became Oklahoma City Thunder.

Westbrook played for the Houston Rockets, Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, Denver Nuggets and Sacramento Kings.

During his 18-year career, he averaged 20.9 points, 6.9 rebounds and 8.0 assists per game through 1,301 NBA games.

He became a league MVP, nine-time All-Star and two-time scoring champion on his way to a future Hall of Fame career.

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