Jack Dempsey/Associated Press

Oscar Robertson Honors Russell Westbrook Before Thunder's Regular-Season Finale

Tyler Conway

Hall of Famer Oscar Robertson was on hand for the Oklahoma City Thunder's season finale Wednesday night, presenting Russell Westbrook with a trophy commemorating his single-season triple-double record.

The NBA provided snapshots of their pregame meeting, which seemingly included a sit-down discussion and presentation of a trophy:

Westbrook, 28, earned his 42nd triple-double of the 2016-17 season in Sunday's win over the Denver Nuggets to break the record. He finished with 50 points, 16 rebounds and 10 assists, all culminating in a game-winning three from 36 feet out as time expired. It was his third 50-point triple-double of the season, breaking another NBA all-time record.

Robertson recorded 41 triple-doubles in 1961-62. Westbrook had already joined him as the only players to ever average a triple-double over a full season.

The Thunder provided video of their discussion upon meeting:

“It was a different era and time and things, but what you’re doing, I think, is historic," Robertson said. "People see it; they love it. I think it’s great for basketball."

Westbrook thanked the all-time great, saying Robertson "paved the way" for players like him with his contributions.

The celebration continued in pregame introductions, with the Thunder putting together a video package and Robertson touting Westbrook as the NBA MVP.

"When Russell was on this journey, I felt that I just had to be here," Robertson said. "I think that what he has done has been historic in nature. He's played with passion and pride and it's outstanding what he's done, the way he did it. You people should really be proud of him for his accomplishments. And I say congratulations again, and I only have one more thing to say: MVP!"

Westbrook is considered one of the two co-favorites for MVP with James Harden. Kawhi Leonard and LeBron James are also contenders, but the field has boiled down in some eyes to Westbrook versus Harden.

Robertson, in his triple-double season, finished third in MVP balloting. If the legend has it his way, history will not repeat itself.  

For more news, rumors and related stories about Russell Westbrook, the Oklahoma City Thunder and the NBA, check out the NBA and Thunder streams on Bleacher Report's app.  

   

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