Kevin Durant expressed his appreciation and respect for Russell Westbrook following the latter’s decision to retire. The two were teammates in Oklahoma City for eight seasons, and KD described “Russ” as a source of inspiration and a champion, even though he never won a championship ring in his career.

“I remember asking assistant coach Morris Cheeks, ‘Which is harder? Individual practice after team practice or before it?’ I asked him because, by the time I got to the gym, Russ had already finished his morning workout, while I usually did mine after team practice. Mo told me, “Coming in before practice is probably harder”… since then, that’s become my routine…

Many people saw the intensity and emotions on the court and thought Russ was loud; no, to me he was calm and methodical. He led by example, and as soon as the lights came on, he gave it his all and experienced absolute freedom. He was a source of inspiration for me as his teammate, and wherever I went, I saw that he inspired people from all walks of life. The incredible thing is that he didn’t say much; he simply showed up. For 18 whole years.

This life in basketball is sacred to us professionals; everything we give on the court means everything. Some of us would like to go back and do things with a little more awareness, while others can simply feel satisfied with the time they dedicated. Which one will you be? We know what “Zero” stood for… keep inspiring us in the next phase of your life, champion.

I don’t care what happens; nothing can erase what we’ve experienced… The early years, the journey to the finals in our early 20s, the All-Star Games, watching each other get injured and come back stronger, the bus and plane trips, the paperwork, the jokes, and the arguments… all of that was unforgettable!

… for the entire Westbrook family: Nina, the kids, Mom Westbrook, Big Russ, Ray, Donell, everyone from Luezinger High School and UCLA, as well as many others I may be forgetting: lots of love and congratulations on an iconic career.”

I remember asking assistant coach Mo Cheeks, “What’s harder to do? Working out after practice or before?” I only asked because by the time I’d get to the gym, Russ was already done in the morning, and I usually got mine in after practice. Mo was like, “Coming in before practice is probably…”

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— Kevin Durant (@KDTrey5) August 13, 2026

*photo source: AP