Kevin Durant has shared an emotional tribute to Russell Westbrook following the former NBA MVP’s decision to retire after 18 seasons.
The two former Oklahoma City Thunder teammates spent eight seasons together and developed one of the most memorable partnerships of the 2010s. Although their careers eventually took them in different directions, their time together in Oklahoma City left a lasting mark on both players.
Durant reflected on that period in a lengthy message, focusing not only on Westbrook’s extraordinary competitiveness but also on the work ethic and personality that made him such a unique figure throughout his career.
Durant remembers Westbrook’s incredible work ethic
One of the first memories Durant shared centered around Westbrook’s approach to preparation.
Durant recalled asking assistant coach Mo Cheeks whether it was more difficult to work out before or after practice. The answer helped shape Durant’s own routine.
“I remember asking assistant coach Mo Cheeks, what’s harder to do? Workout after practice or before?? I only asked cuz by time I would get to the gym, Russ was already done in the morning and I usually got mine in after practice.”
Cheeks told Durant that coming in before practice was probably more difficult.
That moment stayed with Durant and eventually influenced how he approached his own preparation throughout his career.
“Mo like, ‘coming in before practice is probably harder’… since then, it’s been my routine.”
For Durant, Westbrook’s dedication was one of the clearest examples of how the guard approached basketball. Rather than relying on words, Westbrook consistently demonstrated his commitment through his actions.
I remember asking assistant coach Mo Cheeks, what’s harder to do? Workout after practice or before?? I only asked cuz by time I would get to the gym, Russ was already done in the morning and I usually got mine in after practice. Mo like, “coming in before practice is probably…
— Kevin Durant (@KDTrey5) August 13, 2026
“He lead by example”
Durant also offered insight into Westbrook’s personality away from the intense emotions fans regularly saw during games.
While Westbrook became known for his explosive reactions and relentless style, Durant believes there was a quieter side to his former teammate.
“A lot of people looked at the emotions on the court and thought Russ was loud, nah to me, he was quiet and methodical.”
Durant explained that Westbrook led through his actions and saved his emotions for the biggest moments.
“He lead by example and once the lights were bright, he let everything out and experienced pure freedom.”
That approach, Durant said, was inspirational not only to him but also to people around the basketball world.
“It was inspiring as his teammate and everywhere I went, I seen it inspire people from all walks of life, crazy thing is, he didn’t say much, he just showed up. For 18 years.”
Durant reflects on their unforgettable Thunder years
Durant and Westbrook entered the NBA together as two of the central figures in the Thunder’s rise.
Their partnership eventually took Oklahoma City to the 2012 NBA Finals, where the young Thunder faced the Miami Heat.
The duo also shared multiple All-Star appearances and some of the most memorable moments of their careers before Durant eventually left Oklahoma City in 2016.
Despite everything that followed, Durant emphasized the importance of what they experienced together.
“The first YNs, finals run in our early 20s, all star games, seeing each other get injured and bounce back, the bus rides, plane rides, card games, jokes and arguments, the whole thing, memorable!!”
The message highlighted how much of their relationship was built away from the spotlight – through travel, conversations, competition and the everyday experiences of spending years together as teammates.
“Can’t erase what it was”
Westbrook announced his retirement after an 18-year NBA career, bringing an end to one of the most distinctive careers in league history.
The former MVP finished his career with nine All-Star selections and an NBA-record 209 triple-doubles, while also becoming one of the most accomplished players of his generation.
Durant acknowledged the difficulty of looking back on a career while also encouraging Westbrook to embrace what comes next.
“Who u gonna be? We know what zero was on… keep inspiring in the next phase of life champ.”
He also made it clear that whatever happened throughout their careers cannot diminish what they accomplished together.
“I don’t care what happens, can’t erase what it was…”
Durant finished by extending his congratulations and love to Westbrook’s entire family and the people who supported him throughout his journey.
“Much love and Congratulations on a iconic career.”
After years of competition, controversy, injuries, victories and unforgettable moments, Durant’s message served as a reminder of the bond created during those formative years in Oklahoma City – and of the lasting impact Russell Westbrook had on one of his closest former teammates.
