OKLAHOMA CITY — Seven months ago, Oklahoma City was sent staggering into a temporary state of despair. Kevin Durant was gone and many assumed Russell Westbrook — now without his co-star or legitimate NBA title hopes — would soon follow. Trade rumors floated for weeks.
But Westbrook decided to stay, signed an extension, kept a franchise relevant, committed to a city and built back the confidence of a fanbase. As he goes, the Thunder goes. As he acts, his crowd responds.
Westbrook remains scorned by Durant’s departure. So the Thunder fans have been emboldened to feel the same.