UCLA Basketball: Bruin-Turned-NBA Superstar Tempering Expectations As He Ages

Former Bruins Pac-10 (now the Pac-12) Defensive Player of the Year Russell Westbrook, now a member of the Los Angeles Clippers after an incredible first decade-plus in the NBA, recently spoke about his age, expectations, and how his game has changed with time.

Russ's comments are well-said, and frankly, explain his situation quite well. 

In the 2016-2017 season, when Westbrook won the NBA MVP league, he became one of two players in NBA history (along with Hall of Fame point guard Oscar Robertson) to average a triple-double across a full season. 

He proceeded to do this three more times, twice in the ensuing two seasons and then again in the 2020-2021 campaign as a member of the Washington Wizards. 

Now a few weeks shy of his 35th birthday, Russ has stayed productive in spite of his age and slightly dwindling athleticism, finding a role with the LA Clippers late into the 2022-23 season after a messy divorce with the Lakers.

He's projected to be the Clippers’ starting point guard this season, being rolled out alongside the oft-injured Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, along with Terance Mann and Ivica Zubac. 

Given Kawhi and PG's injury history, expect there to be quite a few games where Russ ends up putting up statlines that remind you of his younger self. 

In their five playoff games against the Suns, where the team was marred with injuries (no Paul George at all, no Kawhi Leonard after Game 2), Russ put up 23.6 points per game, 7.6 rebounds per game, and 7.4 assists per game, so maybe he's not as washed as the public may think. 

Don't forget to join our community at LA Sports Report, where we celebrate all things Bruins!