Young Sacramento Kings embrace Russell Westbrook's bold media stand. Rookies reveal how the veteran's fiery defense and leadership guide their NBA transition.
Following the Sacramento Kings' 133-123 loss against the New Orleans Pelicans, veteran point guard Russell Westbrook took to the microphone for his postgame press conference, but this time he flipped the questions onto the reporters.
"What y'all think, though? Y'all got a lot of answers and always be talking," Westbrook asked following the Kings' fiftieth loss of the season. Reporters hesitated to respond, so Westbrook went on, saying, "You guys have a lot of opinions about how we do what we're doing."
Westbrook garnered a lot of attention after the presser, both positive and negative. However, Westbrook earned Coach Doug Christie's endorsement following the loss.
"He's frustrated, and I'm actually OK with that," Christie said. "Because that just shows that he cares about what he's doing."
Christie complimented Westbrook for his effort and energy, despite the team's lack of success. This support continued into the Kings' practice on Saturday, as Westbrook's teammates applauded the former MVP for his leadership.
"He's a great personality, definitely a big alpha on our team," rookie center Maxime Raynaud told reporters. "I think, naturally he'll speak his mind."
Raynaud explained how Westbrook has helped him "tremendously" throughout his rookie season, teaching him how to be a pro on and off the court.
"He talks with me a ton about my play, my confidence and about what comes outside of basketball in the NBA," Raynaud said. "I think he's really one of those guys that helped me flip the switch between college and the league, so I've been very appreciative."
Raynaud has been a steal for Sacramento after being selected No. 42 overall, leading all rookies with 13 double-doubles and shooting at a 56.6-percent clip from the floor.
Nique Clifford, a fellow member of the Kings' rookie class, was supportive when asked Saturday afternoon about Westbrook's comments.
"Russ is the leader of this team," he told reporters. "He's been big-time. Teaching me a lot of stuff. ... Just sticking up for our team. He always shows up, has his routine, does his same thing every single day. He's a true professional."
After being one of the last remaining free agents available, Westbrook has had his best statistical season since 2022-2023, averaging 15.3 points, 6.4 assists and 5.3 rebounds per game. He is also enjoying his highest volume from 3-point range since his MVP season in 2016-2017, making two long balls per game.
ㅤ
Join our ROUNDTABLE community! It's free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!