Russell Westbrook: Current team| Signing| Is retired| High school

Introduction

Russell Westbrook is one of the most electrifying and polarizing figures in modern NBA history. Known for his relentless energy, triple-double dominance, and “why not?” mentality, Westbrook has left an indelible mark on the league. As of 2025, many fans still wonder: Which team is he playing for now? Has he signed somewhere new? Is he retired? Where did he go to high school and how did his early life shape his career?

This comprehensive article dives deep into those questions and more—exploring Westbrook’s current status, recent signings, retirement rumors, high school background, and the trajectory of his NBA journey.

1. Early Life & High School: Where Russell Westbrook Comes From

High School: Leuzinger (Lawndale, California)

Russell Westbrook attended Leuzinger High School in Lawndale, California.

At Leuzinger, Westbrook began turning heads with his athleticism, court vision, and competitive fire. Although he was not instantly a household name during his early high school years, his performance steadily improved. He became known for his aggressiveness, playmaking ability, and defensive tenacity.

Even in high school, Westbrook’s style foreshadowed what he would bring to the NBA: speed, intensity, and a willingness to push the pace. His high school performance led to scholarship interest from several colleges, and he eventually committed to UCLA.

College & Road to the NBA

After graduating from Leuzinger, Westbrook played two seasons at UCLA (2006–2008).

• His freshman season was limited in playing time, but he showed flashes of potential.

• In his sophomore year, he became more prominent: he led the Bruins in assists, made significant scoring contributions, and earned Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year honors.

By the end of his second season, Westbrook declared for the NBA Draft, forgoing the remainder of his college eligibility.

2. NBA Career Path: Teams, Trades, and Highlights

Before we examine his current status, it helps to trace Westbrook’s journey through the NBA:

Teams He Has Played For

Westbrook’s NBA career spans multiple franchises.

Here’s a summary:

Across his career to date, Westbrook has earned numerous accolades: nine All-Star selections, MVP (2016–17), multiple All-NBA team honors, and he is the NBA all-time leader in triple-doubles (203 as of 2025).

3. Russell Westbrook’s Current Team (as of 2025)

Most Recent Team: Denver Nuggets (2024–25 season)

In July 2024, Westbrook signed with the Denver Nuggets.

He played the 2024–25 season with Denver, putting up averages of 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds in about 27.9 minutes per game, with a shooting line of .449/.323/.661.

Notably:

• On May 27, 2025, Westbrook underwent surgery to repair multiple ligament tears in his right hand.

• Despite the injury, he played through much of the season and postseason with his hand heavily taped.

Declining Player Option & Free Agency

As of mid-2025, Westbrook declined his $3.4–3.5 million player option with Denver, thereby becoming an unrestricted free agent.

Multiple outlets report that he will test the open market rather than re-sign with Denver.

Some of the reported potential destinations include:

• Miami Heat: They are considered one of the favorites to land him.

• Other suitors: There has been speculation about teams needing veteran presence or backcourt depth showing interest.

However, as of now, no official new signing has been confirmed. He remains a free agent.

Thus, his current team status in 2025 is:

Free Agent / Formerly with Denver Nuggets (2024–25)

4. Has Russell Westbrook Retired?

As of now, there is no official announcement that Russell Westbrook has retired from the NBA.

Evidence Against Retirement

• He declined his player option to explore free agency, rather than opting for retirement.

• He underwent surgery for a hand injury and is expected to rehab and potentially return.

• Analysts and reports still treat him as an active NBA player who could sign elsewhere.

• No credible source has reported a formal retirement announcement.

Why Retirement Is Unlikely (for now)

• Westbrook still expresses desire to compete; declining his player option suggests he wants options, not closure.

• Even at age 36 (in 2025), he has proven he can still contribute in a reduced or specialized role, particularly valued for experience, leadership, and triple-double capabilities.

• His surgery and rehab would make more sense in the pursuit of continuing his career rather than walking away.

Still, basketball is a business—and retirement could be on the horizon later depending on interest, health, and contract opportunities.

So, in short: Westbrook is not retired (yet).

5. Recent Signing Moves & Speculation

Since Westbrook is a free agent heading into the 2025–26 NBA season, let’s look at what’s happening with signings and speculation:

What We Know

• By declining his player option with the Nuggets, he intentionally opted into free agency.

• Reports suggest he will test the market and consider offers from multiple teams.

• Denver has reportedly refuted claims about massive contract offers, especially from overseas teams like Hapoel Tel Aviv.

• Some teams see value in adding Westbrook’s veteran presence and playmaking skills on shorter deals or veteran minimum contracts.

Possible Teams & Fit

• Miami Heat: Among the most cited as realistic fits.

• Other contenders could include teams needing a stable veteran point guard or backup with defensive and playmaking capabilities.

• But given Westbrook’s age, salary expectations, and injury history, any new deal is likely to be short-term and low-risk.

Until a signing is confirmed, all speculation remains just that: speculation.

6. Legacy, Achievements & Future Outlook

Legacy & Accolades

Russell Westbrook’s career is already Hall-of-Fame caliber, with many accomplishments that cement his place in NBA history:

• NBA MVP (2016–17)

• 203 triple-doubles (NBA record)

• Nine All-Star selections

• Multiple All-NBA team honors

• Career averages (through 1,237 games): ~21.2 points, 8.0 assists, 7.0 rebounds

One notable moment: On December 30, 2024, Westbrook posted a perfect triple-double (16 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists) with zero missed shots and zero turnovers—becoming only the third player in NBA history to do so (joining Nikola Jokić and Domantas Sabonis).

Future Outlook

Given the uncertainty heading into 2025–26:

• If a team signs him, Westbrook could continue as a veteran role player, maybe off the bench or in mixed roles.

• If health or lack of offers becomes a barrier, retirement might become more attractive.

• Even should he retire, his legacy will live on—particularly in discussions around the greatest point guards, triple-double kings, and elite competitors.

• Some fans argue he deserves a jersey retirement or even a statue—especially in OKC, where he spent 11 seasons.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: What team is Russell Westbrook on currently?
A1: As of mid-2025, Westbrook is a free agent. His most recent team was the Denver Nuggets (2024–25 season). He declined his player option and will test the open market.

Q2: Has Russell Westbrook signed anywhere for 2025–26?
A2: No confirmed signing has been announced so far. Multiple teams have shown interest, but nothing definitive to date.

Q3: Is Russell Westbrook retired?
A3: Not officially. He is still an active free agent and has not made a retirement announcement.

Q4: Which high school did Russell Westbrook attend?
A4: He attended Leuzinger High School in Lawndale, California.

Q5: What were Westbrook’s stats in the 2024–25 season with Denver?
A5: He averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds per game, in 27.9 minutes per game, while shooting .449/.323/.661.

Q6: What injury did Westbrook suffer and has he recovered?
A6: He underwent surgery in May 2025 to repair multiple ligament tears in his right hand. The recovery timeline is expected to stretch into the offseason.

Q7: How many teams has Westbrook played for in his career?
A7: He’s played for six NBA franchises: Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Denver Nuggets.