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The star turned his charismatic energy into one of his special shows at Westbrook Academy for the commencement of the 2025-26 school year. Therefore, Westbrook and the NBA star got down to business with the kids for a whole day of activities and Q&A. It was a rare opportunity for him to spend time on a more personal basis with some of the youth from his South Los Angeles community.
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This Instagram post by the Why Not? foundation captures the nine-time All-Star truly at his element in that school environment. In a beautifully captured shot, Westbrook shares a hearty handshake with a student holding a basketball, both grinning widely. That candid, heartfelt moment spells out Westbrook’s approachability and genuine concern for the kids’ welfare.
The Academy caters to children from sixth grade to twelfth grade within a holistic learning environment where learning at large extends beyond academics. As comments began rolling in celebrating the visit, one fan attached himself to the sentiment: “Russ a man for the people,” and another user deepened the sentiment: “Could say so much about what he means to me as a basketball player but what he has done as a guy for the communities and much more is so much larger.”
While much praise was showered upon Russ for his humanitarian work, the occasional interjection of basketball-related questions would go off amidst the rounds of applause for the Westbrook visit: “Russ please my goat. PLEASE consider Denver one more time,” begged one fan; another queried about signing prospects. These little basketball interjections give a paradoxical air to a scenario in which Westbrook supporters fully back his off-court endeavors but on the other hand stay very much engaged in his on-court career.
A good paying emotional scene follows the line: “Russ you got me into the sport and I just hope you know I don’t think anybody has EVER brought as much energy as you do on the court.” That statement, like many others, draws a parallel between Westbrook’s high energy on the court and his high energy for the communities, indicating that his positive impact on the communities is so much more than just basketball.
Starting off the school year, the Foundation focused on “growing, learning and building community” with a wrap-around educational approach. Judging from the enthusiastic response received by all of those involved – which includes the students as well as those following events online – it can be said that one of the intentions of Westbrook’s visit must be held in a museum to inspire the youth and impart to them another truth- that sports success is just one of very few measures of life.
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What sets Westbrook Academy apart is a focus more outward on direct services and opportunities for the South Los Angeles community. One senses, considering his visible and hands-on approach, that Westbrook signs for the program with his whole heart…this is way past an obligation for him: It’s his passion. An online comment captures exactly that sentiment of what giving back is about: “That’s how you give back.” This just completely sums up the feeling ownership gives to this event.