Nine-time NBA All-Star Russell Westbrook, now 36, has made a bold move following his 17th NBA season and first with the Denver Nuggets. Coming off a solid campaign, Westbrook has reportedly declined his $3.5 million player option for the 2025-26 season, opting instead to enter free agency, according to ESPN. While this decision does not guarantee his departure from Denver, it opens the door for Westbrook to explore new opportunities.
In his debut season with the Nuggets, Westbrook appeared in 75 games, starting 36, and averaged 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists while shooting 44.9% from the field. Despite playing through a fractured hand during the postseason, he remained a key contributor in Denver’s hard-fought seven-game first-round victory over the LA Clippers, posting averages of 13.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.3 steals per game.
The news of Westbrook’s decision to test free agency sent ripples through the NBA world, prompting a reaction from former NBA star Stephen Marbury. The ex-Boston Celtics guard, who played his final NBA season in 2008-09 with Boston, took to Instagram to share his thoughts with a single word: “Good.” Marbury, who appeared in 23 games (four starts) for the Celtics that season, averaging 3.8 points, elaborated on his stance in a now-expired Instagram story. He suggested that Westbrook’s talent and contributions are worth far more than the $3.5 million option he declined.
Marbury’s brief but pointed comment implies strong support for Westbrook’s decision to seek a contract that better reflects his value. As Westbrook navigates free agency, all eyes will be on whether he re-signs with the Nuggets or finds a new home, continuing to add to his storied career.