Denver Nuggets point guard Russell Westbrook got off to a strong start with a strong performance as Sixth Man of the Year on Sunday against the New Orleans Pelicans. Entering this contest, Westbrook averaged 11.6 points, 6.5 assists, 4.1 rebounds and 1.6 steals in just 25.5 minutes per game.

Westbrook often closed games for Denver and took on the toughest defensive duties, playing a prominent role for his new team. Westbrook had another strong performance on Sunday night, finishing the game with 21 points, five assists, five rebounds, three steals and one block. Westbrook did everything for the Nuggets and also made NBA history.

With 21 points, five assists, five rebounds, three steals and one block, Westbrook became the oldest player in NBA history to achieve that line off the bench (via Basketball Reference’s StatHead). The previous oldest player to achieve this feat was Derrick Rose in 2021, when he achieved it at the age of 32. At 36, Westbrook now stands alone at the top of this impressive list.

A former league MVP, Westbrook has several NBA records, including some as a reserve player. Westbrook added another on Sunday and was incredible on both ends for Denver.

The Nuggets signed Westbrook this offseason after he was traded from the LA Clippers and acquired by the Utah Jazz. Westbrook has taken on several different roles in his short time in Denver, showcasing his ability to still score, pass, rebound and defend at a high level. Westbrook played 36 minutes on Sunday and received strong support from Nuggets head coach Michael Malone.

The Nuggets entered Sunday’s game against New Orleans with a chance to get back on the win list against the worst team in the Western Conference. With just five wins all season, New Orleans was decimated by injuries. New Orleans gave Denver a good fight and went into overtime, but the Nuggets prevailed.

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