Russell Westbrook, the former NBA star who won a men's basketball gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics, wants a new role in retirement: carrying the torch when the 2028 Summer Olympics arrive in his hometown of Los Angeles. "I'm putting this out now: I want to be in the presentation of Los Angeles, as it pertains to carrying the torch during the 2028 Olympics," Westbrook said Friday after being honored by the Los Angeles City Council for his community service work.
Westbrook, who announced his retirement in August after 18 NBA seasons, said he has challenged employees at his Why Not? Foundation to expand their philanthropic efforts to help achieve that goal. He described a broad focus on technology, energy, education, health care and mental health. Councilwoman Heather Hutt saluted Westbrook as a "humanitarian" for his investments in local schools, athletic facilities and development projects.
Westbrook's Los Angeles ties run deep. He attended Leuzinger High School and UCLA, then played for both the Lakers and Clippers during his decorated career. "Anything I do from basketball to business is based around L.A.," he said. "My legacy will be based on how much I give back to the people of L.A."
The nine-time All-Star and 2017 MVP retired as the NBA's all-time leader in triple-doubles. Westbrook, 37, averaged 15.2 points, 5.4 rebounds and 6.7 assists for the Sacramento Kings last season, and his decision caught many by surprise. Kevin Durant said Friday that the retirement left him "a little sad," adding, "I thought Russ still had five or six more years left." Westbrook said his Hall of Fame induction will "hopefully happen soon," but his primary focus is his hometown.
Source: ESPN NBA · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing