Russell Westbrook Hits 27,000 Career Points, Adds Another Chapter to a Legendary Career
Eighteen seasons into a career that’s been anything but ordinary, Russell Westbrook continues to rewrite the record books. On Monday night, the 37-year-old guard added another milestone to his already historic résumé, becoming just the 14th player in NBA history to reach 27,000 career points.
The moment came during Sacramento’s 120-94 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans-a tough night for the Kings, but a significant one for Westbrook. With 17 points on 7-of-18 shooting in just 21 minutes, Westbrook quietly climbed another rung on the NBA’s all-time scoring ladder, moving ahead of Hall of Famer Hakeem Olajuwon and putting himself within striking distance of Elvin Hayes, who sits at No. 13 with 27,313 points.
Still Producing in Year 18
While the Kings have struggled to find consistency this season, Westbrook has remained a steady contributor. Averaging 15.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game, he’s proving there’s still plenty of gas left in the tank-even as he plays a different role than he did in his prime.
What makes this milestone even more impressive is the context. Westbrook didn’t sign with Sacramento until late in the offseason, and questions lingered about where-or even if-he’d land. But true to form, he’s let his play do the talking.
If he sticks around for another season, Westbrook could climb even higher. Elvin Hayes is just over 300 points away, and Moses Malone, sitting at No. 12 with 27,409, isn’t far beyond that. Given Westbrook’s current production, those targets are well within reach.
A Legacy That’s Long Been Cemented
Of course, Westbrook’s place in basketball history was secure long before Monday night. A former league MVP (2017), nine-time All-Star, two-time scoring champion, and member of the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team, Westbrook has built a career on relentless energy, unmatched athleticism, and a competitive fire that’s rarely been duplicated.
But perhaps his most iconic achievement? Becoming the first player since Oscar Robertson in 1961-62 to average a triple-double for an entire season-a feat he first accomplished in 2016-17, then repeated three more times in later years. It was the kind of statistical dominance that once seemed untouchable in the modern game.
Westbrook’s game has evolved over the years, and so has his role. But whether he’s leading a team or coming off the bench, the impact is still there. The numbers speak for themselves, but so does the respect he commands across the league.
What Comes Next?
There’s no telling how long Westbrook will keep going, but every time he steps on the court, he adds another layer to a career that’s already Hall of Fame-bound. The scoring milestones are just the latest markers on a journey defined by passion, production, and perseverance.
At this stage, every point he scores is more than just a stat-it’s a reminder of the rare air he occupies in NBA history.