Russell Westbrook’s retirement caught a lot of people by surprise because it felt like he still had a lot to give to basketball. However, this has led to people speaking about how he has already given a lot to both the sport and its players.
One of those players who benefited from Westbrook’s guidance is Oklahoma City Thunder guard Jared McCain. A few years ago, McCain played for Westbrook’s team in a Nike EYBL tournament, and since then, it seems McCain has kept learning from the former MVP.
Jared McCain recalls how Russell Westbrook has helped him
McCain is now a regular rotational player on the Thunder, the team that Westbrook is most known for. It is a bit of a full-circle moment for McCain because he learned a lot from Westbrook over the years.
Of course, they don’t have similar play styles, but McCain still learned a lot from Westbrook in other facets of the game. Since Westbrook is one of the players who was considered unshakeable mentally, that has played a factor in McCain’s approach to the game.
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Aside from the lessons he has learned for basketball, it seems Westbrook is just generally a good mentor to have. McCain talks about him with so much reverence, which is a big deal because it shows Westbrook’s willingness to help.
“Playing for an NBA superstar and their team, you never know or expect if they’re going to be around much because they got busy lifestyles, but when he came to Peach Jam, he was out there coaching me and helping me off the court. I can hit him anytime, and I know he’ll respond,” McCain said about his relationship with Westbrook.
Now, McCain wants to be that kind of figure to the future players. That is a great way to continue the legacy because Westbrook did it for McCain, and now the younger player will do it for the next generation as well.
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