By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Russell Westbrook logged yet another triple-double on Saturday evening to match Oscar Robertson at 181 on top of the all-time list of players with the most triple-doubles in NBA history.
“I’m so grateful, thankful and blessed,” he mentioned after the Washington Wizards took down the Indiana Pacers in overtime, “I take a lot of pride in doing everything to impact winning as much as I can and leave it on the floor.”
Westbrook, 32, became the eighth player in NBA history to record at least 30 points, 15 rebounds, and 15 assists, in a single game. He also made sure the Wizards secure the 133-132 victory with a couple of late free throws and a block on Caris LeVert at the buzzer. He finished with 33 points, 19 rebounds, 15 assists, and two rejections with teammate Bradley Beal sitting out the overtime period due to injury after pouring 50 points.
His 181st triple-double was his fourth in a row and also his 35th of the 2020-21 Regular Season. An assist to Beal near the end of the third quarter was the clincher.
“To be in the conversation with Oscar, for one, I want to thank him because he set the stage and sacrificed a lot of things for us to be able to go out and play. The times he played in and the things he was able to do back in the day has allowed me to be able to do the things I want to do today,” he added, “I am just grateful for him, his words and appreciative of his support as well.”
With the Atlanta Hawks on the road following on Monday and again on Wednesday, it seems likely Westbrook will break the record at the State Farm Arena.
The Wizards at 32-36 ranked 9th in the Eastern Conference are all but secured of a play-in opportunity.
Photo Credit: Getty Images