Russell Westbrook Targets Torchbearer Role for 2028 Los Angeles Olympics Following Retirement

Retired NBA star Russell Westbrook announced on Friday his intention to serve as a torchbearer for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Russell Westbrook announced Friday his goal to serve as a torchbearer for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. The 2012 London Olympics gold medalist shared his objective during a Los Angeles City Council ceremony where he was recognized for community service. Westbrook, who retired in August after 18 NBA seasons, finished his career as the league's all-time leader in triple-doubles and earned the 2017 MVP award.

In his final professional season with the Sacramento Kings, the 37-year-old guard averaged 15.2 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game. His departure from the league drew comments from former Oklahoma City Thunder teammate Kevin Durant, who noted Westbrook still possessed the athletic ability to impact the game for several more years. The nine-time All-Star’s career included tenures with both the Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers after playing collegiately at UCLA.

Westbrook is utilizing his Why Not? Foundation to expand philanthropic efforts in healthcare, education, and technology to support his candidacy for the Olympic presentation. Councilperson Heather Hutt cited his investments in local athletic facilities and schools as evidence of his humanitarian impact on his hometown. While Westbrook anticipates a future induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, he stated that his current focus remains on increasing his presence and giving back to the people of Los Angeles.