The impact of Hussle’s death among NBA players is a reminder that a lot of those players came from the same conditions that he did. If there’s any consolation in death, and there’s only so much, it’s that Hussle’s death has shown the expansive impact that one unfortunately short life can have. Carrying his ideas of kindness and empowerment forward is the least that can be done.īut what Westbrook’s dedication to Hussle shows, as well as the mourning of so many people in the NBA and beyond, is how much one person can mean to so many. It’s heartbreaking to think that he is no longer alive, and the memories and stories of the things that he did, the people who he was kind to, and how beloved he was, only makes the death even more painful. All the words and actions of honoring the memory of someone like Hussle pale in comparison to his living presence. There’s little that can be said or done to soothe grief or properly remember the lives of the deceased.
They know what that means.” The statement was a reference to the Rollin 60’s Neighborhood Crips - the gang that Hussle was affiliated with, but later distanced himself from. He then arrived to the arena wearing a blue shirt that said “Crenshaw,” and in his post-game interview, he said, “That wasn’t for me. He refused to answer and instead walked away from the interview. The year after, Westbrook was present to celebrate the opening of Hussle’s apparel store.Īfter practice Tuesday, Westbrook was asked about the death of his friend. In 2016, Hussle and Westbrook served thanksgiving food together to underprivileged children through Westbrook’s Why Not? Foundation. Both are California natives - Westbrook from Long Beach, and Hussle from the Crenshaw neighborhood in South Los Angeles. Many NBA players openly mourned his death.
Hussle was also a fan of the NBA and was beloved in the community. He not only preached, but actively worked to empower people in his community. His death plunged many in the black community into grief. Nipsey Hussle - grammy-nominated rapper, entrepreneur, community activist, motivational figure, father, and friend to so many people, of big and small stature - was shot and killed last Sunday in front of his apparel store in Los Angeles. Russell Westbrook had 20 points, 20 rebounds, and 21 assists - the first 20-20-20 game since Wilt.Īs the game ended, he said "That's for /HFNyWme3pt- SB Nation April 3, 2019