Russell Westbrook is one of the most-hated players in the NBA, and one can only wonder if the fact he once pulled the race card doesn't contribute to that.
It was two years ago, against the Utah Jazz, no less. Westbrook says a fan yelled racial slurs at him. Westbrook hardly responded in a proper and gentlemanly manner. "I'll (f-word) you up. You and your wife, I'll (f-word) you up," he yelled back at the fan.
But, his response isn't what people remember the most, it's that he pulled the race card. It's that he accused the fan of a racial slur. Now, there are a few other players in the NBA that don't sit well with all the fans, LeBron among them.
I remember the day when many fans watched the Oklahoma City Thunder just to see Westbrook. They were amazed at all his triple-doubles. Now days, though, when someone reminds them of his numbers, they simply dismiss him as someone who pads his stats.
The treatment of Westbrook is reflective of many people's views of anyone who "pulls the race card." If you suggest the police didn't treat you right on account of your race, they will get upset with you. They will be indignant. They will tell you that it is people like you who are tearing this nation apart with racism, making an issue where there doesn't need to be one.
They say Westbrook is inefficient, forcing up shots. But, he shoots 44 percent. With the load he takes on -- bringing the ball down and hustling for the rebounds -- one would expect the fatigue might drop his shooting percentage. But 44 percent is hardly bad. Donovan Mitchell shoots 44 percent and no one complains about him (thankfully). Why do people hate Russell Westbrook? Truth be known, why?
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