Russell Westbrook’s return to his original jersey number is making waves as the accomplished point guard transitions to the Denver Nuggets. In a move that signifies both personal and professional change, Westbrook will don the No. 4 jersey for the first time since his high school days.
A Journey Back to No. 4
For many NBA fans, Westbrook is synonymous with the No. 0 jersey he wore throughout most of his career. However, with his recent trade from the Los Angeles Clippers to the Utah Jazz, and subsequent buyout leading him to the Nuggets, Westbrook has opted for a different path. “Obviously I could have stayed with zero if I wanted to, but I just decided to [pick four],” Westbrook explains. “It's kind of my first time in my career I can go back to my original number.”
The decision to switch numbers seems deeply personal for Westbrook, who has worn No. 4 only once before in his professional career. He first chose the number during his high school years, a period that evidently holds significant meaning for him. "Four is my favorite number. It reminds me and it gives me a sense of my roots and where I started from and where I get it from," he shares.
Respect for Teammates
Westbrook’s decision is also a testament to his respect for his new teammates. The No. 0 jersey for the Denver Nuggets is currently held by Christian Braun, a rookie making his mark in the league. “Let's please leave our young star alone. CB and I never discussed him passing along the number 0. I did want to inquire about or request the number 0 because I chose to mark this new change with a 'new' number,” Westbrook clarifies, emphasizing his intentions to respect Braun’s current role.
Jersey History
The journey of the No. 4 jersey has been a winding one for Westbrook. At UCLA, the number was occupied by Arron Afflalo. Later, upon joining the Oklahoma City Thunder, Nick Collison held the coveted number. His tenure with the Houston Rockets was no different, as Danuel House laid claim to No. 4. This sequence of events prevented Westbrook from wearing his favorite number until now. "When I got to Oklahoma, even at UCLA, I got there, Arron Afflalo had it at UCLA. Then I got to Oklahoma City, Nick Collison had it. Then when I got to Houston, Danuel House had it. So I didn't have an opportunity to kind of go back to my original number,” Westbrook elaborates.
Hunter Tyson’s Gesture
Notably, the rookie Hunter Tyson, who was a second-round pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, played a crucial role in facilitating Westbrook’s transition. Currently wearing No. 4, Tyson agreed to switch to No. 5, thereby allowing Westbrook to claim his favorite number. Although Tyson has appeared in only 18 games this season, averaging under three minutes per game, his willingness to switch numbers reflects the camaraderie and mutual respect in the Nuggets locker room.
A New Chapter
Westbrook’s shift to No. 4 could symbolize more than just a numerical change. It marks a return to his roots and an homage to where his basketball journey began. Moreover, it underscores his adaptability and respect for the evolving landscape of NBA rosters. As Westbrook steps onto the court in his new jersey, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if this switch ignites a fresh chapter in his storied career.
Westbrook’s narrative serves as a reminder of the personal and professional choices athletes make, extending beyond the game itself. His thoughtful approach to this jersey change embodies the essence of a seasoned player aiming to blend legacy, respect, and new beginnings.