Oklahoma City Thunder fans have not forgotten Russell Westbrook’s place in their franchise’s brief history.
The former NBA MVP played over 800 games across 11 seasons in a Thunder uniform. On Monday, Westbrook returned to Paycom Center in Oklahoma City as a playoff adversary for the first time.
The Thunder and Westbrook’s Denver Nuggets squared off for Game 1 of their Western Conference semifinal series. Russ, who has primarily come off the bench in his first season with the Nuggets, checked into the contest for the first time at the 5:17 mark of the first quarter.
The home crowd began to applaud once they saw Westbrook make his way to the floor. The cheers quickly turned into a full-on standing ovation for the nine-time All-Star. It was a moment that felt straight out of an uplifting sports movie.
Russell Westbrook receives a standing ovation in OKC
( @RyanGreeneDNVR )
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) May 6, 2025
Monday’s Game 1 was far from the first time Westbrook returned as an opposing player. The Nuggets guard’s appearance marked his ninth time facing off against the Thunder as a visiting player. But the love for Westbrook remains strong six years after leaving the franchise that drafted him.
Westbrook has had a tumultuous journey since he departed OKC. Despite some erratic moments from Russ this season, Nuggets fans have mostly welcomed him with open arms.
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