Besides the assists achievement, Westbrook also became the 14th player in league history to reach 2,000 career steals.
Russell Westbrook feels humbled and blessed after surpassing Magic Johnson on the NBA's all-time assist list.
Earvin Magic Johnson
Earvin Magic Johnson
Position: PG
Age: 66
Height: 206 cm
Weight: 100 kg
Birth place: United States of America
In the postgame of the Sacramento Kings' 113-107 Saturday win over the Dallas Mavericks, Westbrook fondly reflected on the importance of this latest feat he attained.
"It’s an honor," he said. "Magic is one of the greats. I mentioned this a little earlier, but yes, Magic did a lot of great things on the court. Growing up in inner-city Los Angeles, Magic also did a lot for the underserved and continues to do so, something I’ve modeled and wanted to make sure the philanthropy side was done.
"For him, that’s something I’m grateful to be able to pass him in, because he’s such a legend in so many different ways, and I’m grateful to be able to pass him now."
Westbrook, who finished the night with 21 points and nine assists to lead the Kings, moved past the LA Lakers great after delivering a successful fastbreak pass to Keon Ellis in the first quarter of the game.
He is now seventh in the league's assist record books, eclipsing the 10,141 career assists of Johnson.
Besides the epic playmaking achievement, Westbrook also hit the 2,000 career steals threshold, becoming the 14th player in league history to do so.
The 37-year-old Westbrook, who is now in his 18th season in the NBA, pondered the journey he has taken all the way to this point.
"Never in my life," Westbrook answered as he was asked if he ever imagined his achievements. "I can’t even imagine it, which is why I don’t really take credit. I grew up wanting to play football, taking the bus to the park, just being a normal kid in the city. Things happened so fast for me, but I always knew that if I was given an opportunity to be somebody, I would take full advantage of it.
"That’s why every time I step on the floor, I don’t take anything for granted because this was given to me not just for basketball, but as a platform to help and inspire other people. I hope the way I play the game, the way people see me compete, and yes, the records too, inspire people around the world to do great things in their lives."
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