Former MVP Russell Westbrook received an overseas offer from Hapoel tel Aviv amid uncertainty over the Denver Nuggets offseason.
Russell Westbrook stands at a crossroads in the twilight of his career that once defied gravity and conventions. Nine-time All-Star and former NBA MVP, his name once reverberated in an arena like the Thunder before the Storm and will soon play his final professional season. But it’s not necessarily in the league where he makes legends.
Westbrook has been expanded into the UEFA Hapoel tel Aviv’s “historic” contract offer, which is such an important offer that it will take into account expectations of American stars relocated overseas. For players known for their boldness and unpredictability, this offer is more than just a decision. It presents a growing definition of legacy, pride and success.
Westbrook, who had a $3.5 million player option at the age of 36, could take on the role of the NBA. Or, he could go into the center stage again, this time under different lights, thousands of miles from the roar of the Western Conference.
Eurocup champion Hapoel Tel Aviv hopes to make Russell Westbrook a “quote that has never been seen in European basketball” đź‘€
(pass @zoric_nemaghja) pic.twitter.com/dp0f8paeeo
– Legion Basketball (@legionhoops) June 4, 2025
Global spotlight, familiar fade out
If he accepts, Westbrook will join the growing list of NBA veterans who opt for a remake abroad—players like Mark Gasol, Tony Parker and his former teammate Serge Ibaka. Hapoel Tel Aviv quietly built a reputation for attracting American talent, transforming their courts into names that once embroidered on NBA jerseys, and now writes their final performance with a different tongue.
It won’t be the same spotlight, but it will still burn brightly. Europa League is not a footnote – it’s a physical and cultural challenge. For players like Westbrook, their energy has always been the driving force of dynamics, and its motivation has never diminished, and the appeal is not only about money, but also about meaning. Have the opportunity to lead again as a “guy” and write your own story in your own way.
There are no publicly confirmed figures, but the proposal is expected to compete with his NBA choice. If pride and purpose exceed familiarity, it is a door for Westbrook.
Denver’s present and future unknown
Last season in Denver, Westbrook wasn’t an old star, but he was never a shadow. He played his role, playing as a substitute for the defending champion, averaging 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds and 6.1 assists. He is the sound in the locker room, sparking when needed.
However, his role is clear: supportive, secondary, temporary. In the playoffs, the Oklahoma City Thunder’s heartbrokenness over his former team, Westbrook’s influence is softer than the memorable feeling.
The Nuggets face a changing future – probably not including those who were once called Mr. Triple Double. But that doesn’t mean Westbrook’s story is done. It may just take a new chapter, New Jersey, and a new national anthem will go to court.
Decision exceeding USD
If he stays, it is support, play a role, direct and lead from the bench. If he goes, it’s chasing glory again – different, but equally true.
Eurocup champion Hapoel Tel Aviv plans to make Russell Westbrook a salary “never seen in European basketball.” 👀
(pass @zoric_nemaghja) pic.twitter.com/EAGCQQIL8KH
– Basketball forever (@bballforever_) June 5, 2025
For Russell Westbrook, this is no longer a pursuit of statistics. This is about to end. About finding a place that is still important – not in the flash, but all.
Whether the place is Denver or Tel Aviv, the next step in his journey is the most personal step he has ever seen. Finally, Westbrook was never afraid of change. No matter what decision he makes, it is certain that he will move at full speed without any obstacles.
