Russell Westbrook may have officially walked away from the NBA, but the former MVP is not walking away from basketball.
Just weeks after announcing his retirement following an 18-year NBA career, Westbrook has found his next opportunity in the sport. The nine-time All-Star is joining Project B, an upstart basketball league, as a co-founder and chief strategy officer. Westbrook will also hold an ownership stake and serve on the league’s board of directors.
Project B is preparing to launch in January 2027, with plans to bring its games to cities across Europe, Asia and the Americas. The league is starting with a women’s five-on-five competition and has plans to eventually add a men’s basketball component.
Westbrook’s role will be much different from his time as an NBA player. Rather than taking the court, he will help shape the league’s vision, strategy and relationship with its players. Project B is built around giving athletes a larger role in the business, including opportunities to become shareholders and decision-makers.
That player-focused approach appears to be a major reason Westbrook was attracted to the league.
“At every step of my career, what was most valuable to me was making sure everyone had a seat at the table,” Westbrook said in a statement. He added that Project B is looking to create a new connection between sports, culture and entertainment.
Westbrook brings plenty of credibility to the new venture. The Los Angeles native finished his NBA career as the league’s all-time leader in triple-doubles, recording 209 during his career. He also won the 2017 NBA MVP award, two scoring titles and earned nine All-Star selections.
His decision to join Project B comes shortly after he announced his retirement on August 12. Westbrook finished his career with the Sacramento Kings after spending time with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers and Denver Nuggets.
Despite the excitement surrounding his new position, Westbrook is not currently expected to play in Project B. His focus will be on helping build the league from the front office and ownership side.
For Westbrook, this represents the beginning of a new chapter. After nearly two decades competing at the highest level, one of basketball’s most recognizable stars is now looking to influence the sport away from the court.
Project B is still in its early stages, but having a player of Westbrook’s stature involved could give the league an immediate boost as it prepares for its 2027 launch.
