Russell Westbrook added a new milestone to his resume on Wednesday. The Sacramento Kings point guard did not receive this recognition for his performance on the court. Instead, the honor spotlighted his commitment to underserved communities in Los Angeles.
Westbrook has spent years focusing on infrastructure and development. He invested in the Evermont initiative to build 180 housing units for seniors and families on a site that burned down in 1992. Along with this project, he partnered with the Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator to distribute resources for electrification and workforce-development.
The reason for the mid-week celebration became clear when National Geographic released its National Geographic 33 list for 2026. The organization officially released the list on Tuesday to honor innovative problem solvers. National Geographic named a nine-time NBA All-Star as one of 33 global changemakers. Westbrook joined a roster of prominent figures, including veteran actor Harrison Ford and Priyanka Chopra Jonas, to recognize his work for sustainability.
“Focusing on clean tech partnerships, it’s just preparing us for what’s coming next,” Westbrook said.
A feature piece titled “Inside NBA star Russell Westbrook’s plan to clean our skies” detailed how the visionary athlete plans to help Southern California. Westbrook said he wants to prepare these communities for future technological shifts.
“This isn’t just about the Games,” Westbrook spoke to guests at a sustainable-tech gathering the previous year (h/t National Geographic). “It’s about creating opportunities, jobs, investment, and a future where our communities benefit.”
One of the key aspects of the plan is to equip individuals with the skills needed to thrive in a green economy. His foundation also plans to expand the Westbrook/Brownstein Green Tech Program to reach more children.
NBA Most Valuable Player supports over 400 students at the Westbrook Academy in South Gate. The school provides wellness rooms for student discussions, where licensed therapist Nina Westbrook assists with a focus on mental health.
The Kings’ point guard recently reached the top five on the all-time assist list during a game against the San Antonio Spurs.
“RUSS INTO THE TOP 5,” the NBA captioned a post on Wednesday. “Russell Westbrook passed Mark Jackson and Steve Nash on the all-time ASSISTS list last night… He now trails only John Stockton, Chris Paul, Jason Kidd, and LeBron James!”
The veteran’s current contract will expire after the 2025-2026 season, but he does not plan to retire in the near future.
“Yeah, right,” Westbrook said.
“It means a lot to me to partner with Chad and the LA Conversation Corps on this new project,” Westbrook said. “As a kid who grew up here in LA, I know how important it is to feel supported and empowered by the community”.
On the flip side, be it that Westbrook comes back to the Kings next season or otherwise, he’s wrapping up a one-year deal. Nevertheless, check the Sacramento Kings (18-52) forthcoming 2025-26 games:
- Thursday (March 19) vs. Philadelphia 76ers
- Sunday (March 22) vs. Brooklyn Nets
- Tuesday (March 24), at Charlotte Hornets
- Thursday (March 26) at Orlando Magic
- Saturday (March 28) at Brooklyn Nets
Related: Russell Westbrook News Emerges After Injury Against Jazz