Russell Westbrook might be the most misunderstood player in the NBA. Having to endure the departure of Kevin Durant and then the debacle with the Rockets last season, his reputation has taken a huge hit in the eyes of the NBA community, who accuse him of “stat-padding” to the detriment of his team.
No matter your feelings on what the guy does on the court, it’s hard to knock his principles, which often seep through to other parts of his life — whether basketball-related or not.
In an article published by The Washington Post, Russ’ former teammate, Anthony Morrow, recalls one particular (and rather humorous) example of Westbrook stepping up to handle his own business.
Westbrook simply isn’t one to sit back and watch someone do what he can do. The same mentality that he displays on the court applies to his everyday life. Morrow recalls going to the dining area at the Thunder’s practice facility one afternoon and seeing Westbrook seated at a table, typing into a laptop and scrolling through papers as he did his taxes. Puzzled, Morrow asked Westbrook why he didn’t just hire an accountant.
“I don’t need that. I know how to do my taxes,” Morrow said Westbrook told him.
Anthony Morrow talks about a time he saw Russell Westbrook doing his own taxes. 😂
(via @MrMichaelLee, @washingtonpost) pic.twitter.com/kTPxdqmKP2
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) December 22, 2020
As he prepares to embark on his 13th season, the hope is that his attitude and leadership will translate into some wins on the basketball court. The former NBA MVP has yet to make a Finals appearance since his days with Durant.
On a new team, with a fresh start, D.C. is as good a place as any for Russ to turn things around and finally prove his haters wrong.
