Former NBA Forward Charlie Villanueva Congratulates Russell Westbrook on Retirement
Charlie Villanueva posted a video tribute to Russell Westbrook after the star announced his retirement, recalling their past on-court clashes.
Former NBA forward Charlie Villanueva used social media to honor Russell Westbrook following the point guard’s retirement announcement. Villanueva shared a 2016 video showing him stepping between Westbrook and former Thunder teammate Cameron Payne during a pre-game dance routine, and wrote, "Congrats on an incredible career and retirement... much respect. Definitely didn't always get along on the court as I recall... but always respect the way you competed and played the game. Real talk!".
The two players had a well-known rivalry while Westbrook was with the Oklahoma City Thunder, including a public exchange in which Villanueva told Westbrook to "go to a nightclub" if he wanted to dance before games, and Westbrook replied that Villanueva’s actions were for "guys who don’t play.".
Villanueva retired after 11 NBA seasons in 2016, while Westbrook, who completed 18 seasons and finished his career with the Sacramento Kings in the 2025-26 season, announced his retirement on Wednesday. He departs as the league’s all-time leader in triple-doubles and the highest-scoring point guard in NBA history.