Russell Westbrook's New Chapter with a Familiar Number
Russell Westbrook, one of the most dynamic players in the NBA, is making a significant change as he joins the Denver Nuggets next season. The former MVP will not be wearing his iconic No. 0 jersey, a number that has been synonymous with his electrifying playing style and fierce competitiveness. Instead, Westbrook will don the No. 4 jersey, a number that holds deep personal significance for him.
A Return to Roots
This switch marks the second time in his professional career that Westbrook has opted for the No. 4 jersey. It's a number that he wore during his high school years, a period that played a crucial role in shaping the player he is today. Speaking about his decision, Westbrook shared, "Four is my favorite number. It reminds me and it gives me a sense of my roots and where I started from and where I get it from."
Throughout his NBA journey, Westbrook has had limited opportunities to claim the No. 4 jersey. "When I got to Oklahoma, even at UCLA, I got there, Arron Afflalo had it at UCLA. Then I got to Oklahoma City, Nick Collison had it. Then when I got to Houston, Danuel House had it. So I didn't have an opportunity to kind of go back to my original number," he explained.
Changes in Denver
Westbrook’s arrival in Denver comes after a convoluted series of moves. He was traded by the Los Angeles Clippers to the Utah Jazz, but a buyout of his contract allowed him to enter free agency and ultimately join the Nuggets. Denver offers a fresh start, and Westbrook seems eager to mark this new beginning with a familiar yet new number.
Christian Braun, who wore No. 0 in high school, currently holds the No. 0 jersey for the Nuggets. Westbrook was quick to clarify that there was no request on his part for the young player to relinquish the number. "Let's please leave our young star alone. CB and I never discussed him passing along the number 0. I did want to inquire about or request the number 0 because I chose to mark this new change with a 'new' number."
Team-First Mentality
Hunter Tyson, a rookie for the Nuggets and a second-round pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, currently held the No. 4 jersey. Tyson, who had appeared in just 18 games for Denver, averaging under three minutes per game, agreed to switch his number to No. 5 to accommodate Westbrook’s request. This gesture underscores the collaborative and team-first mentality that the Nuggets are embracing as they head into the new season.
Westbrook's versatility and veteran presence are expected to provide a substantial boost to the Nuggets. His decision to switch to No. 4 has been an emotional and personal journey, one that adds another layer to his already storied career. "Obviously I could have stayed with zero if I wanted to, but I just decided to [pick four]. It's kind of my first time in my career I can go back to my original number."
As Russell Westbrook steps onto the court in his No. 4 jersey, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how this new chapter unfolds. His return to a number that symbolizes his beginnings is more than a numerical change; it is a reminder of the roots that have nourished his relentless drive and passion for the game.
The Nuggets, buoyed by this new addition, are looking ahead with heightened anticipation. Westbrook's blend of experience, tenacity, and leadership promises to drive the team as they aim to make a significant impact in the upcoming season. The decision to wear No. 4 is a testament to Westbrook's respect for his journey and those who have been part of it, promising a season filled with renewed vigor and aspirations.