Clippers' Russell Westbrook gets standing ovation at OKC, praises Thunder fans

Russell Westbrook may no longer be wearing a Oklahoma City Thunder jersey, but for the OKC fanbase, number 0 will always be one of their own.

The Los Angeles Clippers guard received a warm welcome back to the Paycom Center as the Thunder crowd roared in excitement with a standing ovation when Westbrook checked into the game on Thursday night. Westbrook acknowledged the Thunder fans with a wave before helping the Clippers snap the Thunder's nine-game winning streak with a 134-115 victory. Westbrook finished the night with 15 points, 13 rebounds, and four assists.

Los Angeles Times Clippers writer Andrew Greif reported in the postgame interview that Westbrook had nothing but praise for the fanbase in OKC that saw him play for 11 seasons.

"Best fans in the world. It’s like home for me to be honest.” Westbrook said. “I grew up here and they welcomed me and my family with open arms. They gave me everything they had every night and I did the same and I’m grateful."

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Westbrook's time with the Thunder

It can be argued that Westbrook helped grow the Thunder franchise and put it on the map. Westbrook played with the Thunder in his NBA debut in 2008 after being drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics who relocated to Oklahoma City that same year.

Westbrook was a crucial player in helping the Thunder make it to the 2012 NBA Finals, ultimately losing to the Miami Heat. Westbrook played 11 seasons in Oklahoma City before being traded to the Houston Rockets in 2019.

A star-studded sideline in OKC

Brazilian and Real Madrid soccer star Vinicius Junior was spotted courtside at the Thunder vs. Clippers game at Paycom Center as a guest of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The two athletes are reportedly close friends who enjoy supporting each other.

Gilgeous-Alexander was seen supporting Vinicius Junior at the Champions League semifinal match between Real Madrid and Manchester City this summer.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Westbrook's return to OKC: Clippers player receives standing ovation