European powerhouse ready to make Russell Westbrook an offer he can't refuse: Report

Russell Westbrook has a $3.4 million player option following his debut campaign with the Denver Nuggets in the 2024-25 season. Westbrook is enjoying his vacation after the Nuggets lost 125-93 to the OKC Thunder in Game 7 of the Western Conference finals on May 18. The former MVP has until late June to decide his future with the team.

European basketball reporter Nemanja Zoric broke the news that could change expectations around Westbrook.

The former Thunder superstar played a key role for the Denver Nuggets after struggling with the LA Clippers in 2023-24. He averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists and 4.9 rebounds per game, playing alongside three-time MVP Nikola Jokic. Westbrook is past his prime but proved that he still has plenty left in the tank.

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In stretches in the playoffs, Westbrook helped carry the Nuggets, particularly when Jokic sat to get his rest. Although Brodie remains error-prone, the point guard’s energy, hustle and aggressiveness sparked his team on multiple occasions. Hapoel Tel Aviv might be interested in bringing his talent to Israel.

In mid-April, Hapoel Tel Aviv won the EuroCup at the expense of Gran Canaria, the first time the team won the competition. The title allowed them to punch a ticket to the EuroLeague, the top-tier tournament, where it will face rivals Maccabi Tel Aviv and other elite opponents. Getting Russell Westbrook via a mouthwatering offer should boost their chances of doing well in the EuroLeague.

Fans react to news of Russell Westbrook getting an offer to play in Israel

News of Russell Westbrook possibly taking his talents to Tel Aviv quickly went viral. Former NBA players like Patrick Beverley, Bruno Caboclo, Cedric Ceballos and others suited up for Hapoel Tel Aviv in the past. Westbrook will be the first NBA MVP to join the team if a deal gets done.

Fans promptly reacted to the news:

One fan said:

Another fan added:

One more fan continued:

Another fan commented:

Russell Westbrook has until June 29 to opt into his player option with the Denver Nuggets. If he opts out to become an unrestricted free agent and the "salary never seen before in European basketball" is true, Westbrook might bolt for Israel.

About the author

Michael Macasero brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his coverage of basketball at Sportskeeda with over 18 years of diverse work experience. This includes stints at Convergys, Interpace and RunRepeat.

Michael's background in English and Journalism has provided him with the analytical skills and precision necessary for creating content, and he is a lifelong fan of the Boston Celtics. His favorite players include legends like Larry Bird and Michael Jordan, modern stars like Tim Duncan, and Nikola Jokic, as well as emerging talent like Victor Wembanyama.

Michael respects Gregg Popovich, despite his contentious demeanor in interviews, and recognizes Popovich's genius in adapting his coaching style to maximize the talent on his roster over the years. Michael eagerly anticipates seeing how Popovich will structure the offense around emerging talent like Victor Wembanyama.

Understanding the story and details is crucial to Michael's reporting philosophy and he believes overlooking details, particularly when pressed for time, can lead to misunderstandings and inaccurate conclusions.

Aside from work, Michael's children are his hobbies, and he also likes to go running, swimming and weightlifting.

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Edited by Michael Macasero