Russell Westbrook has agreed to a five-year $205 million contract extension with the Oklahoma City Thunder, according to a report by ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. It is the richest deal in NBA history.
According to Woj, Westbrook's new deal begins with the 2018-19 season, and is the biggest guaranteed contract in NBA history - six seasons and $235 million through 2022-23.
The report states,
"Westbrook will sign for the Designated Player Veteran Extension. The extension allows for Westbrook to sign for 35 percent of the salary cap and five additional seasons. Westbrook's total salary of $235 million includes $205 million for the new extension and $28.5 million for his 2017-18 salary. His salary in 2018-19, when the extension begins, will start at $35.3 million."
Westbrook, 28, is coming off a historic MVP season where he averaged 31.6 points, 10.7 rebounds and 10.4 assists per game, making him the first player to average a triple double since Oscar Robertson did it during the 1961-62 season.
Not only does the five-year extension guarantee that Westbrook will be in OKC for the long-term, it also gives the Thunder a much better chance at resigning All-Star forward Paul George, who is due to become an unrestricted free agent in July. George has openly expressed interest in returning home and playing for the Los Angeles Lakers but his best opportunity to win an NBA title may be staying in OKC alongside Westbrook and Carmelo Anthony.
Westbrook was selected fourth overall in the 2008 NBA Draft and has been named to six All-Star teams in his nine seasons. He was named to the All-NBA 1st team in the last two seasons.
Earlier this month he inked another epic deal, a 10-year contract extension with Jordan Brand, which is reportedly the most lucrative endorsement deal ever by any Jordan athlete.
And today he signs a five-year extension worth $205 million. On Kevin Durant's birthday no less.