Russell Westbrook: Why I Play Mad

In this video, Russell Westbrook was asked why it looks like he takes it personal if somebody scores on him.  Russ says its because of how he feels about the game.  He says he loves the game and wants to be the best, and if you want to be the best, you have to take pride in every possession, take pride in not letting someone score on you, and take pride in limiting mistakes.  When you do, you have to have some pride and take another chance to find a way to fix it.

“You have to keep emotions in check and focus on the next play.  The game is not about you as an individual, but about the team and you have to stay focused and ready for the betterment of the team.  Be able to sit back and take yourself out of the equation and find a way to help your team and help your teammates.”

Russ says he always has something to prove and that his job is to compete hard for his team.  Because of that and the way he grew up and having to earn everything he has every gotten, he knowingly carries a chip on his shoulder.

He also talks about having balance.  With his dad, they talk about the game a lot, but with his mom, he doesn’t talk about basketball because there are times where you have to get away from it.