Russell Westbrook is used to getting a standing ovation from fans inside Chesapeake Energy Arena.
This was just the first time he’s gotten one as a member of the opposing team.
The 31-year-old Westbrook made his return to Oklahoma City on Thursday, marking the first time he’d been back to OKC since being traded to Houston during the offseason.
As was noted during Paul George’s return, the Thunder organization isn’t really known around the league for their tribute, but they pulled out the stops to honor Westbrook.
A more than two-minute video played prior to starting lineups showed some the best moments of Westbrook’s 11-year career in Oklahoma City. When Westbrook’s name was called, the fans gave him a loud ovation, and Westbrook, in turn, ran to the side of the court to acknowledge them.
Prior to being traded to the Rockets, Westbrook had spent his entire career in Oklahoma City.
He was drafted fourth overall by the Thunder in 2008, won a league MVP in 2011, and helped turn the franchise into perennial postseason contenders.
As noted by ClutchPoints, Westbrook still holds the record for most points in Thunder history at 18,559.
