Russell Westbrook Has No Plans to Retire from NBA After 2025-26 Season with Kings

Russell Westbrook has had a tremendous 17-year NBA career, but he believes there's still more basketball to be played.

According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, Westbrook, who signed with the Sacramento Kings last week, does not intend to retire following the 2025-26 campaign.

Westbrook, who will turn 37 next month, is coming off a season in which he averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists and 4.9 boards per game for the Denver Nuggets. While Westbrook is no longer the MVP candidate and triple-double machine he once was, he's transitioned well into a role off the bench in recent years.

He had the chance to remain in Denver this season, but declined his $3.5 million player option and hit free agency.

He had a lengthy stint in free agency, and in recent weeks, it looked like he may not end up on a roster on opening night. Even as the offseason neared its end, Westbrook remained steadfast in wanting an NBA contract and was against playing overseas.

At long last, Westbrook has found his home for the 2025-26 campaign, and he'll now suit up for his seventh different team.

How Westbrook's role will change in Sacramento is unclear. He will presumably serve as the backup point guard to Dennis Schröder, but head coach Doug Christie might have other plans.

Whether he's in a starting role or coming off the bench, Westbrook will look to make the most of his next opportunity. He's only on a one-year contract, so his future in the NBA is not guaranteed. That means he'll have to prove he still belongs in the league.