Russell Westbrook’s Jordan Brand extension is well deserved
Russell Westbrook will be getting a 10-year Jordan contract extension that includes a signature sneaker. This new step was only a matter of time and well deserved.
Russell Westbrook had a magical season last year that propelled him into getting an MVP trophy. When you work hard, you get rewarded. Michael Jordan and his Jordan Brand shoe line, which Westbrook is signed to, have signed Westbrook to a 10-year contract extension.
The best part about it for Westbrook is the fact that he will get a signature sneaker. Don’t expect the shoe to come out this year though. It takes 12-18 months for a signature shoe to be finished.
Westbrook had a season in which he was easily the best player in the NBA. He averaged a triple-double for the season and he led the Oklahoma City Thunder to a playoff berth after they lost their best player in Kevin Durant.
Signature shoes are reserved for the players who have the extreme popularity and have transcended the basketball court into pop culture popularity. Players like Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul, who have their own signature shoe under Jordan already have done that. They are household names and some of the most recognizable players in the NBA.
Most players will not have a signature shoe but after the season that Westbrook had, it was only a matter of time. Westbrook is also known for his fashion sense with his different style of dressing. His style has been something to watch before games when you see players coming in through the tunnel.
Also, he came out with a fashion book that displays his sense of style. This offseason is a coming out party for Westbrook and he is going into a season that is promising for him and the team.
The Thunder added Paul George to team up with Westbrook and they look better offensively with the new additions of Patrick Patterson and Raymond Felton. With all the incentives that have come with being the MVP, Westbrook is going into this season with nothing holding him back.
There are no off court issues, no nagging injuries and the team got better over the summer, not worse. The Thunder are heading into the right direction. Westbrook still hasn’t signed his designated player extension though, which would keep him in OKC long-term. That is something that will be up for discussion coming into the new season.
Westbrook has looked good on the court recently though. If you are lost then you probably have not seen Westbrook partaking in pickup games with Enes Kanter, James Harden and Chris Paul, among others. One thing that has never been questioned is Westbrook’s drive. Jordan has said that Westbrook reminds him of himself.
“Thirty years ago that’s me,” Jordan said.
Jordan pushed himself past his limits and left everything out on the floor just like Westbrook has done year in and year out.
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The 10-year extension with Jordan will also have an ambassador clause that will let Westbrook attend Jordan events and be involved with the sneaker line even when he is retired.
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Jordan doesn’t want the partnership with Westbrook to end. He is in it for the long haul.