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It will be a night to remember at Chesapeake Energy Arena...Russell Westbrook, the most beloved player in Thunder history, is back.
It will be his first and only game this season at The Peake since being traded to Houston. The Thunder will break their tradition of not playing video tributes to former players who return on other teams recognizing Westbrook is different.
Thunder GM Sam Presti released a statement about Westbrook's return and his importance to the Thunder and to Oklahoma City.
"Russell Westbrook gave the Thunder and the Oklahoma community everything he had for over a decade. He arrived when his career and the organization were litterally starting from zero. Russell was a catalyst for a lot of incredible moments and memories and memories for a lot of our fans but it is his relentlessness, longevity and commentment that define his legacy in Oklahoma City. It's goin g to be a unique moment when he steps back on the Chesapeake floor...a chance for people to recognize someone that will always figure prominently in the history of our city."
The ovation from fans following that video tribute could go on for a while and as Russ would say...Why Not?
Remember tonight's game is the back half of TNT's double header so tipoff will be at least 8:40 and will likely be pushed back by the pregame festivities.
If you don't have tickets you can see the game on both TNT and Fox Sports Oklahoma. The FSO telecast will include full coverage of the ceremonies honoring Westbrook.
Also tonight will be the debut of the Thunder's new City Edition uniforms.
The uniforms are a complete departure from anything the team has worn before and were designed specifically to remember the 25th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing and honor the memory of those who died and those who were changed forever.