Russell Westbrook Drops Cryptic Retirement Hint—What’s Next?

So, Russell Westbrook stepping onto the court for what could be his 18th NBA season—can you believe it? At this stage, most would expect a veteran like him to be seriously thinking about hanging up the jersey, right? But not Russ. When asked about retirement, his two-word rebound—“Yeah right”—hit harder than a clutch triple-double. It’s fascinating, really. Here’s a guy who’s defying not just age but the narrative, still logging solid minutes with the Sacramento Kings despite the whispers that his best days are behind him. Sure, the league’s view of Westbrook has shifted, contracts got smaller, and the headlines less flattering. Yet, something about his fiery spirit insists he’s not done yet. So, how much longer will Westbrook keep at it? And honestly, can you imagine the NBA without his electric presence?

Detroit Pistons v Denver Nuggets — (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)

Russell Westbrook is about to start his 18th season in the NBA, so people are naturally wondering how much longer he’ll play.

But those expecting Westbrook to hang up his jersey after one season with the Sacramento Kings better think again.

Speaking to the press about a possible retirement, Westbrook had a short, clear answer.

“Yeah right,” Westbrook said.

Russell Westbrook on potentially retiring after this season:

“Yeah right.”

(via @MattGeorgeSAC)pic.twitter.com/tMg5piAysn

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) October 19, 2025

Westbrook has no reason to retire yet because he is still healthy and able to chip in a lot to his team.

Last year, for example, he averaged 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists on 44.9 percent from the field.

There are plenty of complaints about Westbrook and his on-court choices.

As well, people criticize him for moving around the league so much over the last few years.

He may not be the sort of starter he once was, but Westbrook can still be an asset and has years of experience and success to be proud of.

He also doesn’t get hurt often and played in 75 games last season, spending an average of 27.9 minutes on the floor.

Still, this offseason raised a lot of questions.

When Westbrook wasn’t able to secure a new contract with a team, it became clear that the league doesn’t value him like it used to.

He then signed a smaller contract with the Kings, but a lot of people don’t view him as the powerful, pivotal player he once was.

He has fire in his belly and wants to play hard, but there is no doubt that Westbrook is nearing the end of his career, even if he doesn’t want to talk about it yet.

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