Washington Wizards guard Russel Westbrook allowed his emotions to get the better of him during Friday’s 116-100 loss to the Atlanta Hawks. Westbrook was expelled from the competition after receiving two technical fouls by Rajon Rondo.
While Westbrook and Rondo were going back and forth throughout the game, Westbrook blamed himself for being expelled, saying he couldn’t afford to “get down to anyone’s level”.
Russell Westbrook about what was happening to him and Rajon Rondo tonight: “Honestly, it’s more about me. I cannot allow myself to descend to anyone’s level. This is not my character, who I am. “
Westbrook received two coaches tonight, both for things with Rondo.
Full answer here: pic.twitter.com/JkxS3D5N8g
– Fred Katz (@FredKatz) January 30, 2021
Westbrook admitted that there was some small talk involved, but said he “has to be better” in those situations.
Russell Westbrook and Rajon Rondo took action
It was clear that Rondo and Westbrook were at odds over the entire game. Both players started their first techniques after entering an altercation in the second quarter. Westbrook won his second technique, and his ejection, after pushing Rondo in the fourth period.
Rondo was very happy with this development, immediately pointing to the locker room and waving to Westbrook as he left the court.
While Westbrook understands that he made a mistake here, he has a lot to be frustrated with this season. Despite Bradley Beal and Westbrook, the Wizards have the worst NBA record of 3-12.
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