Amazed Westbrook never dreamed of breaking triple-double record
Oklahoma City Thunder star Russell Westbrook expressed his gratitude after surpassing Oscar Robertson’s triple-double record in the NBA as he exceeded his own childhood expectations.
Westbrook made NBA history on Sunday, posting his 42nd triple-double of the regular season with his 50 points, 16 rebounds and 10 assists in the thrilling 106-105 win over the Denver Nuggets.
The six-time All-Star’s haul, which also included the buzzer-beating shot, shattered Robertson’s record, which had stood for 55 years.
“It’s amazing,” Westbrook told Fox Sports about breaking the record and posting his 79th career triple-double.
“Something I could never dream about as a kid. Just very thankful and blessed to be able to go out and compete at the highest level.
“Thanks to my team-mates, the coaching staff, my fans and my family. I just thank God for my blessings each and every day.”
Who else? Russell Westbrook drills a 3 at the buzzer and Thunder wins!! #MVP #MVP #MVPpic.twitter.com/hPaNKalFiJ
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) April 9, 2017
“Just blessed. I’m so thankful to play the game I love every night,” he added.
“Special thanks to the man above. He blessed me with the chance to compete.”
Westbrook – who clinched a triple-double average for the season with two games remaining – had chances to break the record against the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday and the Phoenix Suns on Friday, falling short twice.
The 28-year-old, however, was not to be denied by the Nuggets on the weekend.
All Praise to the Man above #whynot #42 pic.twitter.com/UyuelBnrho
— Russell Westbrook (@russwest44) April 10, 2017
When asked if there was a point in the season where he knew the record was possible, Westbrook said: “My motto is why not?
“Regardless of what people say whether it’s possible or not possible, I continue to think why not and strive to be the best I can be.”
