Russell Westbrook comments on his first game in the Los Angeles Clippers jersey with 17 points, 14 assists but also 7 losses and 6 fouls in the daring loss to the Sacramento Kings.
“All points scored? I think it’s the effect of the All Star Game… I’m trying to find ways to be effective when I’m on the hardwood. I’m willing to do whatever is asked of me be it placing blocks, ball handling, cutting, whatever…. I’m just trying my best to influence the game and use my IQ to play for my teammates.”
The Clippers crowd gave the former UCLA a great reception, cheering from the moment he came out to warm up to his 6th foul in the second overtime.
“Having a chance to hit the field and compete is something I don’t take for granted. Not only that but the support from the organization, my teammates, the fans, overall it was a fantastic debut but unfortunately without a win… And that’s the saddest part, but beyond that the fact that I was able to walk on the pitch too stand and compete, the entire support system around me in this game was top notch. I appreciate very much.”
After the race, Paul George first commented on Westbrook, his teammate already in Oklahoma City.
“It went pretty much how I envisioned it… We saw the early signs of why many of us believed Russ needed this team, his contribution in so many aspects of the game.”
The Clippers set new franchise records for points scored and season highs for assists (39) and three-pointers (26).
“We needed a point guard, someone who could lead us on offense and create easy baskets. It was a real necessity for this group.”