In a what some are calling a shocking display of disrespect, one of the announcers of the Game 5 between the Clippers and the Suns called Russell Westbrook “Westbrick” on live TV right before he missed a layup off the front rim. The moment was captured by many fans on social media, who found the moment hilarious while also uncalled for.
Westbrook, who is known for his fiery and competitive personality, had a rough night on the court. He shot a dismal 3-18 from the floor, including 1-6 from the three-point line. He also had five turnovers, some of which came in the final minutes of the game when the Clippers were mounting a comeback. The Suns eventually won 136-130, eliminating the Clippers from the playoffs.
Was the Announcer Calling Russell Westbrook “Westbrick” Disrespectful?
The announcer who uttered the infamous nickname was either Ian Eagle, Jim Jackson, or Jared Greenberg, who were calling the game for TNT. The nickname “Westbrick” is not new to Westbrook, who has faced criticism for his inefficient shooting and poor decision-making throughout his career. However, he has always expressed his disdain for the term, saying that it is offensive and disrespectful to his last name. As you’ll see in one of the videos below, last season he proclaimed that he would no longer tolerate people calling him “Westbrick”.
Westbrook is one of the most polarizing players in the NBA, as he is admired by some for his relentless energy and triple-double feats, but also criticized by others for his lack of efficiency and championships. However, regardless of one’s opinion on him as a player, there is no excuse for an announcer to mock him on live TV with a nickname he finds derogatory, but it was likely just a slip of tongue. Skip Bayless is really rubbing off on people.
