Russell Westbrook Seeks Olympic Torch Role for 2028 Los Angeles Games

Months after stepping away from professional basketball, Russell Westbrook is looking toward the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics with a specific goal in mind. During a ceremony at Los Angeles City Hall on October 9, 2026, the NBA’s all-time triple-double leader expressed his desire to serve as a torchbearer when the Summer Games return to his hometown.

Westbrook made the public pitch while being honored by the Los Angeles City Council for his extensive community work. He made the request during the ceremony to participate in the Olympic relay, a role typically reserved for individuals who combine significant athletic achievement with local civic contributions. Westbrook, a Los Angeles native who rose to stardom at UCLA before his 18-season NBA career, told those in attendance that he wants to “carry that torch” for the city that raised him.

Westbrook was recently recognized for his philanthropic efforts through the Why Not? Foundation.

The campaign for an Olympic legacy follows Westbrook’s formal retirement on August 12, 2026. His departure from the court was punctuated by a social media announcement confirming the end of a career that saw him surpass Oscar Robertson for the most triple-doubles in league history. According to career statistics, Westbrook retired as the NBA’s all-time leader with 209 triple-doubles.

Westbrook’s final professional season (2025-26) was spent with the Sacramento Kings, where he averaged 15.2 points and 6.7 assists per game. He opted to conclude his playing days to focus on his philanthropic efforts and business ventures in Southern California.

A Foundation in South Los Angeles

The bid to carry the Olympic torch is rooted in Westbrook’s “Why Not?” Foundation, which has become a fixture in South Los Angeles. The City Council’s recognition specifically highlighted his initiatives to build reading rooms and provide mental health resources for underserved youth. This focus on education and community stability has repositioned the often-polarizing superstar as a central figure in L.A.’s civic landscape.

Beyond his local impact, Westbrook holds significant Olympic pedigree. He was a member of the 2012 “Dream Team” that secured a gold medal at the London Games, playing alongside fellow legends Kevin Durant and LeBron James. Analysis of the 2028 Games suggests that his combination of a gold medal and his deep-rooted “Why Not?” Foundation work makes him a prominent candidate for the local leg of the torch relay.

As reported by MyNewsLA.com, the City Council ceremony served as a bridge between his athletic past and his future as a community advocate. While the official selection for torchbearers is still years away, Westbrook’s early and vocal commitment to the 2028 Games signals his intent to remain a visible face of Los Angeles sports long after his final buzzer at the professional level.

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