Dillon Brooks and Russell Westbrook may not seem like natural counterparts in the NBA, but according to Steven Adams, the two share more similarities than one might think. The veteran center, who has had the unique opportunity to play alongside both Brooks and Westbrook, recently opened up about his experiences with the two players during an appearance on “The Morning Shift” podcast. Adams’ insights offer a fascinating look at the personalities of these two polarizing figures in the league, revealing a side of them that fans rarely see.
The On-Court Persona vs. Off-Court Reality
Dillon Brooks has built a reputation as one of the NBA’s most controversial players. Known for his aggressive defense, trash talk, and sometimes questionable on-court antics, the Canadian swingman has often been painted as a villain by the media and fans alike. However, Steven Adams, who played with Brooks on the Memphis Grizzlies from 2021 to 2023, sees a different side of him.
“He’s cool, bro. He’s cool, super nice guy off the court,” Adams shared on the podcast. “It reminds me of Russ lowkey where it’s like everyone takes their on-court persona and thinks that’s how they are all the time and it’s not. It’s literally like a switch… He’s a type of player that you want on your side and you don’t really want to go against it.”
This comparison to Russell Westbrook is telling. Westbrook, a former MVP, has long been a polarizing figure in his own right. Known for his fiery competitiveness, intense play style, and emotional outbursts on the court, Westbrook has often been misunderstood by those who don’t know him personally. Yet, like Brooks, those who have played alongside Westbrook, including Adams, describe him as a completely different person off the court—someone who is kind, generous, and genuinely cares about his teammates.
The Steven Adams Perspective
Steven Adams is uniquely positioned to make this comparison. The New Zealand native spent six years playing alongside Westbrook with the Oklahoma City Thunder, from 2013 to 2019, during which time they developed a strong bond. Adams experienced firsthand how Westbrook’s on-court intensity often overshadowed his off-court persona.
Adams’ tenure with Brooks, although shorter, provided him with similar insights. Just as Westbrook’s fierce competitive nature masks his true character, Brooks’ brash demeanor on the court doesn’t fully represent who he is off of it. For Adams, this ability to “flip the switch” is not only a testament to their professionalism but also a quality that endears them to their teammates.
“It’s something that I’ve seen before with Russ,” Adams noted. “You see how they play, how intense they are, and you think that’s how they are 24/7. But off the court, they’re some of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet. It’s just that competitive edge that they bring when they’re in the game. You need that kind of player on your team.”
Dillon Brooks and Russell Westbrook: More Alike Than Different
While Dillon Brooks and Russell Westbrook might seem like an odd comparison on the surface, Adams’ observations highlight the traits that they share. Both are relentless competitors who bring an unmatched level of intensity to the court. Both have been criticized for their style of play and perceived attitudes, yet both are respected and beloved by those who know them best.
Brooks, like Westbrook, has faced his share of media scrutiny. His aggressive approach has led to multiple altercations on the court, earning him a reputation as a “bad guy” in the league. However, Adams’ comments suggest that this perception might be misguided. Brooks’ fiery nature is a part of his game, but it doesn’t define who he is as a person. Much like Westbrook, Brooks’ teammates see him as a vital part of the team—someone who is fiercely loyal and dependable when it matters most.
Russell Westbrook’s New Chapter in Denver
Interestingly, Steven Adams’ connection to both Brooks and Westbrook comes full circle with Westbrook’s recent move to the Denver Nuggets. After a tumultuous few years that saw him traded multiple times, Westbrook now finds himself with the reigning NBA champions, having signed a two-year, $6.8 million contract after being waived by the Utah Jazz. This move to Denver offers Westbrook a fresh start and a chance to reinvigorate his career.
Although Westbrook is unlikely to start for the Nuggets, his role will be crucial. The team is looking to bolster its depth after the departure of key players like Bruce Brown Jr. Westbrook’s experience and ability to push the pace make him a valuable asset off the bench, and there’s even speculation that he could contend for the Sixth Man of the Year award if things go well in Denver.
For the Nuggets, Westbrook’s addition is about more than just statistics. It’s about the intangibles—his leadership, his energy, and his ability to rise to the occasion in big moments. These are qualities that, as Steven Adams has pointed out, both Westbrook and Brooks share. If Westbrook can channel his on-court intensity while maintaining his off-court leadership, he could play a pivotal role in Denver’s pursuit of another championship.
As the 2024 NBA season approaches, both Dillon Brooks and Russell Westbrook find themselves at crucial junctures in their careers. Brooks will need to navigate the scrutiny that comes with his style of play while continuing to be the player his teammates rely on. Westbrook, on the other hand, has the opportunity to redefine his legacy with a new team and perhaps even secure another championship ring.
For Steven Adams, the parallels between Brooks and Westbrook serve as a reminder that there is often more to a player than meets the eye. Both players, despite their polarizing on-court personas, have proven to be invaluable teammates—warriors on the court and respected figures off it. As fans and analysts alike continue to debate their merits, Adams’ perspective offers a nuanced view of what it truly means to be a competitor in the NBA.
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