Russell Westbrook Expands Academy, Strengthening Legacy in South LA
The community where Russell Westbrook lives has seen a significant impact from the nine-time NBA All-Star. Over 400 middle and high school students in South Los Angeles now have access to the expanded Westbrook Academy, which was unveiled by Westbrook in a recent announcement.
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The academy, founded in collaboration with the LA Promise Fund, provides students with a secure and nurturing environment to excel academically and personally. Nina Westbrook, Russell’s wife, emphasized the significance of such a space.
“I just feel like, you know, when you’re in a space and you feel good and it feels comfortable and safe, then you have the best opportunity to succeed and get your work done,” Nina Westbrook told Good Day LA’s Brooke Thomas.
During the pandemic, Westbrook took a significant risk by investing his own resources to establish the academy. Using his own experiences as a child in Los Angeles, he recognized the lack of resources for many young people in the community.
“Having grown up in Los Angeles, knowing the resources I didn’t have. And having an opportunity to partner with LA Promise to bring something like this to South LA for their kids, for their families…what’s most important is education,” he explained.
Beyond academics, Westbrook Academy prioritizes mental health, which is a crucial aspect of overall well-being. Westbrook comprehends the significance of addressing this frequently overlooked issue. “Mental health is a huge part of our operation,” he added.
Westbrook’s dedication to giving back to his community is equally inspiring as he continues to make strides on the basketball court. His dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of young people can be seen through the Westbrook Academy.
“I’m LA to the core and I want to represent LA wherever I go,” Westbrook said. “To me, legacy is what you leave behind, not just for my family, but for the people you touch along the way, along your journey. And God has blessed me with this opportunity and platform to be able to do so. And I want to help as many people as possible.”
Later in the day, Westbrook was congratulated by a photographer and if he planned on doing something simular with the Westbrook Academy in Africa. Westbrook replied, “Working on it.” and what comes to mind when he thinks about Africa ? “Inspiration.”
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