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NBA Rumor: Russell Westbrook Requested No. 0 Jersey on Nuggets but Was Denied by Christian Braun
Take a look to how Russell Westbrook reportedly asked for the No. 0 jersey after joining the Denver Nuggets, but was denied by Christian Braun. This sparked buzz around Westbrook's start
Russell Westbrook, known for his explosive style of play and trademark No. 0 jersey, has started a new chapter with the Denver Nuggets. However, this time around, he won't be wearing the number that has defined much of his NBA career. Instead, he’ll be donning a different jersey number, and the story behind it reveals a lot about his arrival in Denver.
Westbrook joined the Nuggets this offseason, signing a two-year, $6.77 million deal. As with most new beginnings, he wanted to carry a piece of his past with him No. 0 jersey, a number that has become synonymous with his identity on the court.
From his early days with the Oklahoma City Thunder to his stints with the Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, and Los Angeles Clippers, Westbrook has almost always sported the No. 0. The number was more than just a digit; it represented his fierce competitiveness and relentless drive.
But upon his arrival in Denver, Westbrook faced an unexpected hurdle. The No. 0 jersey was already taken by Christian Braun, a young guard entering his third year with the Nuggets. When Westbrook approached Braun about possibly taking over the number, Braun declined.
It was a bold move for a player still carving out his own identity in the league. Refusing a request from a nine-time All-Star might seem surprising, but it also shows Braun's confidence and attachment to his own jersey.
Without No. 0 available, Westbrook had to make a decision. He then turned to second-year forward Hunter Tyson, who was wearing No. 4, another number Westbrook had worn during his time with the Washington Wizards.
Tyson agreed to switch from No. 4 to No. 5, making way for Westbrook to take on his new number with the Nuggets. Interestingly, Tyson didn’t ask for anything in return, showing respect for the veteran guard.
For fans who have followed Westbrook’s career closely, seeing him in a different jersey number will certainly take some getting used to. His No. 0 jersey has been a constant throughout his journey, from his college days at UCLA to his MVP season in Oklahoma City.
That number has witnessed countless triple-doubles, thunderous dunks, and unforgettable moments on the court.
But perhaps this change in number signifies a new era for Westbrook. At 35, he's at a different stage in his career, joining the reigning NBA champions in hopes of adding a title to his already impressive resume.
The Nuggets, led by Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray, are a team built on camaraderie and a strong sense of identity. Westbrook, despite his superstar status, is entering a locker room where every player’s role is valued.
Westbrook's willingness to adapt and take on a different number might reflect a broader willingness to embrace his new role with the Nuggets. No longer the lone superstar as he was in Oklahoma City, Westbrook will be part of a collective effort in Denver. This could be an opportunity for him to reinvent himself, contributing in ways that go beyond just his individual performance.
Braun’s decision to keep his number is also noteworthy. It highlights the competitive spirit and confidence that the young guard brings to the team.
In a league where veterans often command deference, Braun’s stance is a reminder that every player, regardless of experience, has the right to their place in the squad.
In the end, while the jersey number may have changed, Westbrook’s drive and passion for the game remain the same.
Whether it’s No. 0 or No. 4, what matters most is the impact Westbrook will have on a team looking to defend their title. And who knows?
This new number might just bring Westbrook and the Nuggets the success they've been chasing.
