Russell Westbrook knows what his next goal is: to carry the Olympic torch at the upcoming 2028 Games to be held in the city of Los Angeles.
He announced it recently, taking advantage of a charity event for his Why Not? Foundation.
“I’m announcing it now: I want to participate in the Los Angeles presentation by carrying the torch during the 2028 Olympic Games,” Westbrook said.
It’s worth recalling that he recently announced his retirement from the court at 37 after wearing the Kings’ colors during his final season in action.
“To be able to carry it (the torch), one has to position oneself in a way that allows involvement in many areas. For me, with my work to impact a broad audience, to promote advances in technology, education, healthcare, mental health, and well-being, I want to be engaged in all those aspects and help in every way I can,” he acknowledged.
Westbrook’s ties to the city of Los Angeles are very strong, since he developed as a player at Leuzinger High School and later moved on to UCLA.
Moreover, he has donned the colors of both of the city’s franchises: the Lakers and the Clippers, respectively between 2021 and 2023, and 2023 and 2024.
“Everything I do, from basketball to my businesses, revolves around Los Angeles. I carry Los Angeles in my blood. The way I play, the way I act, and even the way I speak reflect Los Angeles. My legacy will be based on how much I give back to this city,” he stated.
Selected by the now-defunct Supersonics with the 4th pick of the 2008 Draft, in more than 1,300 official games he holds NBA career averages of 20.9 points, 6.8 rebounds and 8 assists per game.
