One of the Dallas Mavericks‘ greatest rivals of the previous generation called it a career this week when Russell Westbrook announced his retirement from the NBA. 

But as reaction and congratulations rolled in from across the basketball world, one of Westbrook’s former antagonists — ex-Mavs big man Charlie Villanueva — also joined the conversation to pay his version of respect. 

“Congrats on an incredible career and retirement @russwest44 much respect,” he said in an X post Wednesday. “Definitely didn’t always get along on the court as I recall … but always respected the way you competed and played the game. Real talk! Hell of a career … salute.”

Villanueva attempts only proved so fruitful as Oklahoma City advanced to the next round in five games, ending the Mavs’ season.

Westbrook leaves the game as the NBA’s career leader in triple-doubles and the 2017 MVP after 18 seasons during which he was selected to the league’s 75th anniversary team.Â