Oscar Robertson Says He Hopes Russell Westbrook Breaks Triple-Doubles Record
Oklahoma City Thunder star Russell Westbrook needs four triple-doubles in the final eight games to break Oscar Robertson's single-season record of 41, a record the Hall of Famer hopes to see fall.
Per ESPN.com, speaking to Andy Katz, Robertson said he's "rooting" for Westbrook to surpass the triple-double record.
Speaking more generally about Westbrook's basketball skills, Robertson had high praise for the Thunder's MVP candidate.
"I always thought he was a great basketball player," Robertson said. "I was talking to some basketball people the other night, and I said, 'I don't think any of these guards can beat him on a one-on-one game.' I think he's been tremendous for the team, his fans and also for television."
Robertson also said Westbrook is his choice for NBA MVP:
"I think it's Westbrook. That's what I really think. Because years ago it was tough to win an MVP because it was based on winning championships -- and Russell with the Celtics. They dominated. But one year, Wilt [Chamberlain] averaged 50 points a game and 29 rebounds and me a triple-double, but Bill [Walton] won because his team advanced and we did not.
It's changed now. A lot of people understand what an MVP means. They understand basketball better than they did years ago.
"
In addition to Westbrook seeking to break Robertson's triple-double record set in 1961-62, he's also looking to join the Big O in averaging a triple-double over the course of an entire season.
Through 74 games, Westbrook is averaging 31.8 points, 10.6 rebounds and 10.4 assists per game.
