BREAKING: Russell Westbrook Wins Prestigious Oscar Robertson Trophy Midseason Award, Cementing Status as One of College Basketball’s Elite

NORMAN, OK — May 3, 2025 — The University of Oklahoma’s basketball program is celebrating a landmark achievement today as standout player Russell Westbrook has been named the winner of the Oscar Robertson Trophy Midseason Award. The announcement was made early Friday morning by the U.S. Basketball Writers Association (USBWA), sending ripples through the college basketball world and signaling Westbrook’s rising dominance in the sport.

The Oscar Robertson Trophy is one of the most coveted individual honors in college basketball, awarded annually to the nation’s top player. With this midseason recognition, Westbrook joins an elite list of players who have demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and consistency throughout the first half of the NCAA season.

Though the award is named after the legendary Oscar Robertson, the announcement also acknowledged Kevin Durant’s exceptional legacy and its influence on this generation of players, including Westbrook. Durant, himself a former standout at the University of Texas and now an NBA icon, is widely considered one of the greatest scorers in basketball history. Westbrook’s performances have echoed Durant’s dominance, blending explosive athleticism with a high basketball IQ that has been critical to Oklahoma’s impressive season.

Westbrook has averaged 21.7 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game, leading the Sooners to a top national ranking and a strong position heading into the NCAA Tournament. His clutch performances, high-energy play, and leadership have drawn comparisons to past greats and made him a fan favorite across the country.

“This is a tremendous honor,” said Westbrook in a statement released by the university. “To be recognized in the same conversation as Oscar Robertson and Kevin Durant is humbling. I couldn’t have done this without my teammates, coaches, and the support of Sooner Nation.”

The award places Westbrook as a frontrunner for the national Player of the Year award, typically given at the end of the season. If he maintains his current level of play, he is likely to become a high pick in the upcoming NBA Draft and leave a lasting legacy at Oklahoma.

Head Coach Porter Moser praised Westbrook’s work ethic and character, stating, “Russell has earned everything he’s achieved this year. His drive, focus, and love for the game are contagious. We’re incredibly proud of him.”

As March Madness approaches, all eyes will be on Westbrook and the Sooners as they aim for a deep postseason run. With momentum building and a major award now on his résumé, Russell Westbrook’s journey from high school phenom to college superstar is well on its way to legendary status.

More updates to follow as this story develops.