Introduction
As of August 2025, Russell Westbrook has not retired. Instead, he declined his player option with the Denver Nuggets and officially entered free agency. This article breaks down his current contract status, the possibility of returning to the NBA, the surge of overseas interest, and what fans can expect next. We’ll also explore whether Europe—specifically Hapoel Tel Aviv—could be his next destination.
1. Where Does Russell Westbrook Stand Now?
Declining the Player Option
On June 13, 2025, Westbrook declined his $3.47 million player option, thereby becoming an unrestricted free agent as of June 30.
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At age 36, coming off right-hand surgery, this move signals confidence in securing a better deal elsewhere.
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During the 2024–25 season with the Nuggets, he averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds in 75 games.
Retirement? Not Yet
There is no indication that Westbrook has retired. Instead, he is actively exploring new opportunities.
2. Is There a New NBA Contract in the Works?
Free Agency Buzz
Following his free agency declaration, speculation grew around potential NBA suitors. One rumor positions the Sacramento Kings as the most likely destination, with ESPN’s Tim MacMahon suggesting mutual interest.
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This would be his seventh team in eight years—a continuation of his journeyman phase.
Role & Value
Westbrook’s proven ability to contribute off the bench as a high-energy playmaker, combined with veteran leadership, make him a potentially valuable addition for teams needing depth and experience.
3. The Overseas Contract Rumors
Hapoel Tel Aviv’s “Historic” Offer
In early June, reports emerged that Hapoel Tel Aviv, Israel’s EuroLeague contender, had extended a “historic” or “never-before-seen” contract offer to Westbrook.
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According to Nemanja Zoric, Hapoel had made initial contact and was planning a record-breaking offer that could rival—or exceed—the $3.5 million Westbrook would have earned with his NBA player option.
Hapoel Denies It
Shortly after, Hapoel Tel Aviv publicly refuted the reports: “That’s 100% fake news. There was no interest, and no one approached him.”
Westbrook’s response on Instagram suggested he had no plans to consider an overseas move anytime soon. Westbrook contract.
4. Summary: What’s Next for Westbrook?
| Question | Status |
|---|---|
| Retirement? | No signs of retirement—he’s a free agent. |
| New NBA Deal? | Possible—strong interest from teams like the Kings. |
| Overseas Contract? | Rumored and denied; no credible offer confirmed. |
5. What Lies Ahead?
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Free Agency Dynamics: Expect multiple NBA teams to court Westbrook, valuing his playoff experience and veteran leadership.
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Potential Roles: Likely to be sought as a bench leader or backup point guard with still-strong production capabilities.
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Overseas Option: Unlikely, unless new, credible developments emerge.
FAQs
Q1. Is Russell Westbrook retired?
A: No. Westbrook declined his $3.47 million player option with the Nuggets and is now an unrestricted free agent.
Q2. What are Westbrook’s NBA options for the 2025–26 season?
A: He’s free to sign with any NBA team. The Sacramento Kings have emerged as a potential suitor, though no deal is official.
Q3. Did Westbrook receive a contract offer from Hapoel Tel Aviv?
A: Reports suggested a record-setting European offer, but the club denied it, calling the rumors “100% fake news.”
Q4. Could he still go overseas?
A: While not ruling out the possibility, currently there’s no credible offer or indication that he will play outside the NBA.
Q5. What were Westbrook’s 2024–25 season stats?
A: He averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds over 75 games with the Nuggets.
Conclusion
As of mid-2025, Russell Westbrook remains firmly in the free-agent market—no retirement, no confirmed overseas transition. NBA teams are evaluating his fit, with the Sacramento Kings among those linked to him. Meanwhile, rumors of a flashy overseas deal were decisively denied. His next move will likely be another chapter in an already storied and ever-evolving career.
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