In the world of professional sports, NBA superstar Russell Westbrook has always been in the spotlight. His on-court brilliance is apparent, with nine All-Star selections, a coveted MVP award in 2017, and a place on the renowned 75th Anniversary Team. Under the praises and victories, though, is a story of suffering, tenacity, and the transformational power of therapy.

Recently in an interview, Nina Westbrook Russell’s wife spoke about his faith in therapy. After getting harsh criticism from the entire NBA community, Nina Westbrook claims that therapy helped Westbrook overcome his adversities.

Why did Westbrook opt for therapy?

Russell Westbrook has been the target of harsh criticism from both fans and the media for many years. People had a more negative view of his performance when he was positioned as the Lakers’ third star alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, which didn’t work out.

During a press conference, Westbrook also expressed his frustration with the negativity surrounding his character. He highlighted that humiliating his name is unjustified and has an impact on his family, including his wife and mother. He reportedly expressed hesitation to bring his children to the game because he didn’t want them to hear people call their father names.

This is when a turning point came in Westbrook’s life in the form of therapy. Therapy interventions helped Russell find comfort and growth amidst public opinion. He credits much of his success on and off the court to his wife, Nina Westbrook, a trained therapist herself. He now practices weekly therapy to express and communicate his personal struggles. It truly demonstrates the significant impact of his wife’s guidance.

And during a recent episode on her show, The Relationship Chronicles with Nina Westbrook, she spoke about her husband’s therapy experience. She said, “Even me being a licensed marriage and family therapist, Russell was not onboard for therapy for so many years. And now he is the biggest advocate we have added to our foundation as a pillar to educate people on mental health and wellness.”

Westbrook’s time with the Lakers

Russell Westbrook, the 2017 NBA MVP, joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 2021, joining LeBron James and Anthony Davis to form a fearsome combination. The Lakers acquired Westbrook by surrendering key members of their championship-winning lineup from 2020. However, the relocation was received with disappointment and difficulties, resulting in a poor season.

Read More: LeBron James and Russell Westbrook in the Middle of a Shocking Conspiracy Theory: ?The Biggest D**k Move?

Westbrook’s return to the Lakers fell short of expectations, with an unimpressive debut. He experienced criticism from the fans and the media, with some calling him “Westbrick” pointing out his inconsistency with the ball.

He had fewer triple-doubles and his stats dropped in scoring, rebounding, and assists from previous seasons. The Lakers then traded Westbrook to the Utah Jazz. In an industry where the pressure to perform may be crushing, Westbrook’s narrative serves as a light of hope. It shows us that the path to winning entails not only defeating opponents on the court, but winning internal fights.

Watch this Story: ?Grew Up Watching Him?: 26 YO NBA Star Who Idolized Russell Westbrook Shares an Anecdote of Playing With Him During His First Game