Sixers 2008 Draft Center

Draft Prospect: Russell Westbrook

2007-08 Stats

CAREER

Among all of the accomplished freshmen who made an impact on the Pac-10 this season, Russell Westbrook stood beyond all else as one of the premiere upperclassmen in the conference. Westbrook, an integral piece to the Bruin program and a member of the school’s previous two Pac-10 Championships and Final Four appearances, was first on the team in minutes (33.8 mpg), first in assists (4.3 apg), first in total steals (63), third in scoring (12.7 ppg) and third in rebounds (3.9 rpg).

Westbrook saw a vast amount of improvement in his overall game in the transition from his freshman to sophomore year. The UCLA combo guard boosted his statistics in almost every recognizable category in the 2007-08 campaign, most specifically in points (3.4 to 12.7), rebounds (0.8 to 3.9) and assists (0.7 to 4.3). Over the past two seasons, Westbrook has been more than durable for the Bruins playing in a total of 75 games, and his 1,318 minutes played this season marks the most from any UCLA player dating back to 1979. He scored a season-high 22 points in the final game of the season against the University of Memphis and also recorded a 21-point performance in an 82-60 home victory against Arizona. The Hawthorne, CA native recorded 28 games in double figures this season, while distributing five or more assists in 18 outings.

AWARDS

Defensively, Westbrook was assigned to some of the most talented scoring threats in the Pac-10 Conference this season, including the likes of freshmen sensations O.J. Mayo and Jerryd Bayless. Westbrook succeeded in his endeavors and, as a result, was awarded as the Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year, in addition to his Third Team All-Pac-10 and All-Defensive Team selections.

STRENGTHS

Westbrook is an extremely explosive player who can penetrate the lanes with ease. An unselfish player, Westbrook can play either position in the backcourt and he uses his wingspan to his advantage on defense. (NBA.com)

He likes to run in transition and his speed allows him to move up and down the court smoothly. Westbrook has a huge upside and his constant improvement will turn him into an all-around perennial player. (ESPN.com)

This feature is intended for reference only and in no way reflects the ideas or opinions of the Sixers players, coaching staff, scouts or front office.