Russell Westbrook, who recently joined the Denver Nuggets, is known for his ability to score near the basket, rebounding, durability, and intensity as a competitor. After his NBA debut in 2008, the 35-year-old, who was recently supported by a former NBA player, became a star as a member of the Oklahoma City Thunder. However, former American football safety Ryan Clark criticized him by comparing him to NFL player Lamar Jackson.
In response to Clark’s statement, Westbrook’s wife, Nina, took the stand for her husband. In her Instagram comment, Nina criticized Ryan Clark for comparing Lamar Jackson to her husband.
“My goodness! Just as a basketball fan, we couldn’t even wait for the NBA season to start up before the Russell slander begins? This doesn’t make any sense. The only comparison to be made between Russell and Lamar is that they’re both unicorns and amazing at what they do. I’ve never met Ryan, and I’m sure he’s a nice guy, but please stop. And finally… before you start hating on Russell, at least let the basketball season start and let him miss a layup or something first. I’m still enjoying the peace and the silence” Nina wrote in her Instagram comment.
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Clark received a rebuke from Westbrook’s wife, who pointed out that his comparison was illogical. She added that the only similarity between Jackson and Westbrook is that they are both exceptional at what they do.
Ryan Clark’s Comments On Russell Westbrook
Westbrook has achieved several milestones in his professional career, including winning the NBA MVP award in 2017. However, his most remarkable achievement is becoming the all-time NBA leader in career triple-doubles. Westbrook is one of two players in NBA history who averaged a triple-double for a season.
However, Clark believes that Westbrook is a great player but disappoints at crucial moments. During a recent episode of ESPN’s Get UP, the former NFL player compared Jackson’s mistake during the Baltimore Ravens’ loss against the Kansas City Chiefs to what Westbrook did against Damian Lillard.
“Lamar Jackson right now is like Russell Westbrook, right? you remember when he [Westbrook] and Dame Lillard went head-to-head and it got emotional, he couldn’t make a shot, right? Everything he was trying to aim, every time he was open, it was hitting the back of the iron. It wouldn’t go in. And what did Dame Lillard do at the end of the game? Dame little sidestep shot the three, and he hit us with the wave.” Clark said.
The recent season was disappointing for Westbrook as he averaged 11.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.5 assists in 68 games during the 2023-24 season. However, the next NBA season will start in a month and a half, giving the 9-time NBA All-Star a chance to silence his critics with his performance.
