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Anchored by $106.88 Billion Company, Russell Westbrook Takes On Whopping Mission for LA Community

Published 02/27/2024, 9:02 PM EST

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USA Today via Reuters

LA Clippers star guard Russell Westbrook holds deep ties in the Los Angeles community. In an Instagram post on Tuesday evening, Westbrook announced a slam dunk collaboration with multi-billion-dollar corporation, Target. This partnership aims to construct 180 much-needed affordable housing units within the South Central LA area, where he grew up.

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In a pre-season interview with AllClippers, Westbrook remarked, “We have this platform, and me, personally, I really pride myself on trying to be the face of Los Angeles when it comes to our community. I’m from LA, and I feel like it’s my duty and my honor to give back to as many people as possible – especially the underserved communities of Los Angeles. I will do everything I can to make sure I continue to fill some of these gaps, whether it’s education, whether it’s finances, whether it’s healthcare. Whatever that may be, I try my best to do the best I can.”

Westbrook’s dedication extends beyond mere words. He has consistently demonstrated his commitment through concrete, solid actions.

Westbrook’s Legacy

Last November, the future Hall-of-Famer did the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly renovated “Russell Westbrook Community Court” at Jesse Owens Park in South LA. This court served as his personal training ground during his young balling days.

Just prior to the ceremony, Westbrook, alongside members of his foundation, “Why Not?,” hosted the organization’s 12th annual Thanksgiving Food Drive, distributing 1,000 meals to families in need.

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During the ceremony, Westbrook emphasized that his mission extends beyond the hardwood. He believes his purpose lies in giving back to the community that nurtured him. Notably, Westbrook’s journey to success wasn’t a cakewalk. Unlike many of his NBA contemporaries, he wasn’t a nationally recognized high school star, nor did any major college actively try to pursue him.

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The LA Clippers currently hold 4th place in the Western Conference with a 37-19 record right below the Denver Nuggets, who recently surpassed them with 39-19. While playing alongside fellow HOFers Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and James Harden, Westbrook’s role has transitioned from the high-scoring point guard he once was. He has embraced his new responsibilities, leading the team’s second unit with finesse. Through 56 games this season, he has been averaging 11.2 points (45.2% shooting, including 27.6% from 3-point range), 5.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists.

Westbrook, now in his 16th NBA season, remains focused on his ultimate goal: a championship run with the LA Clippers. Despite all the hate he gets, his undeniable contribution to his community is a winning play, both on and off the court.

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Written by:

Aakritee Raajj

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One take at a time

A lawyer turned NBA Writer at EssentiallySports, Aakritee Raajj found herself in the right realm as soon as she dropped her black coat to don the Mavericks’ jersey in the NBA department. That’s how the content strategy desk trusts her with any coverage demanding a legal knowhow. She became a fan of the league in the late 2000’s after Dirk Nowitzki upset the Miami Heat in Game 6 during 2011 NBA Finals.
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Edited by:

Sameen Nawathe