Oklahoma City to honour a franchise legend
The Oklahoma City Thunder have announced that Russell Westbrook's iconic No. 0 jersey will be retired on February 7, 2027, recognising one of the most important players in the organisation's history.
Westbrook spent 11 seasons with the Thunder, becoming the face of the franchise and producing some of the most memorable individual performances in modern NBA history.
The nine-time NBA All-Star will join former teammate Nick Collison as the second player to have his jersey retired specifically for his contributions to Oklahoma City.
The season that changed NBA history
Westbrook's defining achievement came during the 2016–17 season, when he averaged 31.6 points, 10.7 rebounds and 10.4 assists per game.
He became the first player since Oscar Robertson in 1961–62 to average a triple-double across an entire NBA season, earning the 2017 Most Valuable Player award.
Westbrook also recorded 42 triple-doubles that season, breaking Robertson's longstanding single-season record of 41.
One of his most unforgettable performances came against the Denver Nuggets in April 2017, when he recorded 50 points, 16 rebounds and 10 assists while hitting a dramatic game-winning three-pointer.
It was a moment that perfectly captured his extraordinary combination of athleticism, determination and competitive intensity.
The player who stayed
Westbrook's connection with Oklahoma City became particularly significant following Kevin Durant's departure to Golden State in 2016.
Rather than leaving, Westbrook committed his future to the Thunder and became the undisputed leader of the team.
For Oklahoma City supporters, his loyalty became as much a part of his legacy as the triple-doubles and explosive performances.
Alongside Durant, Westbrook had previously helped establish Oklahoma City as a Western Conference powerhouse, including an appearance in the 2012 NBA Finals.
A legacy beyond the statistics
Westbrook's playing style divided opinion throughout his career, particularly his relentless pursuit of triple-doubles and aggressive approach to the game.
However, his impact on the Thunder is difficult to dispute.
He helped transform a young franchise into a regular contender, delivered an MVP-winning season and created a lasting connection with the Oklahoma City community.
His No. 0 jersey will now become a permanent reminder of the era he helped define.
February 7, 2027: A special night in Oklahoma City
The ceremony will take place on February 7, 2027, providing Thunder supporters with an opportunity to celebrate the player who represented the franchise for more than a decade.
For a generation of Oklahoma City fans, Westbrook was not simply a superstar. He was the player who helped give the franchise its identity.
His number heading into the rafters is a fitting recognition of that contribution.