Russell Westbrook Reacts to Incredible Game Winning Block on Devin Booker

Russell Westbrook Reacts to Incredible Game Winning Block on Devin Booker

Edwin Kiplagat
updated at April 17, 2023 at 12:42 PM
  • Los Angeles Clippers point guard Russell Westbrook had a weird Game 1 versus the Phoenix Suns
  • He finished with nine points but shot 3-of-19 from the field, then came up with a game-winning block on Devin Booker
  • He also grabbed 11 rebounds, provided eight assists, and blocked three shots to help the Clippers win 115-110

The Los Angeles Clippers pulled off a stunning win over NBA title favorites Phoenix Suns in the opening round of the 2022/23 NBA playoffs.

Kawhi Leonard led the Clippers to a 115-110 victory, but Russell Westbrook's clutch block on Devin Booker late in the game sealed the win for the visitors.

Devin Booker, Russell Westbrook, Clippers, Phoenix Suns, Kevin Durant, Chris Paul, Kawhi Leonard
Russell Westbrook shot terribly vs. the Suns. Photos by Kate Frese/NBAE.
Source: Getty Images

The veteran point guard had a terrible shooting night. He shot 3-of-19 from the floor, including 1-of-6 from three. Still, he was able to be productive in 36 minutes. He finished with 9 points, 11 rebounds, eight assists and three blocks. It was his worst shooting game as a Clipper, per the Athletic.

Leonard carried the Clippers, finishing with 38 points, five rebounds and five assists. They will need Westbrook to step up in Game 2.

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Westbrook reacts to clutch block

Despite his dreadful shooting night, Westbrook came up with an important play in the game.

He blocked Devin Booker's drive to the basket with 10 seconds remaining and the Clippers leading 115-108. He explained how he managed to block the Phoenix Suns star.

"Just awareness, and trying to  make winning plays, not giving it easy. I know they want to  go quick two, but just not giving in and giving up an easy two and being aware of the baseline."

He added he was willing to do anything the team requires him to.

"My whole career, man. I've been priding of myself every season to do everything. I think I'm one of those guys that can do everything each and every night.  Like I've always told you guys, whatever's needed of me to win a game, I'll do it. I'm just grateful that Ty Lue and the staff believe in me regardless of my shots not and allowing me to make an impact on the team and win," via SI.

With Paul George reportedly out for the rest of the first-round series due to a knee sprain sustained on 21st March, per ESPN, Westbrook will have to improve offensively.

Game 2 is set for Tuesday, 18th of April.

George wants Westbrook to win

Sports Brief earlier reported on Paul George saying he wants Westbrook to win an NBA title. Despite winning the 2017 MVP award, Westbrook's career has spiraled.

After leaving the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2019, the nine-time All-Star is now playing for his fourth team in as many years.

Speaking on the sidelines of the 2023 All-Star weekend, George praised his former teammate and said he would love to see him win the NBA title.

Authors
Edwin Kiplagat photo
Edwin Kiplagat
Edwin Kiplagat has five years of experience in journalism working as a Sports Editor at Africa Insight Communications and ESPN. Edwin Kiplagat is a Bachelor's Degree holder in journalism from the Multimedia University of Kenya.