Sacramento Kings head coach Doug Christie’s statement on veteran Russell Westbrook attacking the media after the loss may or may not surprise you, but either way, he’s rooting for his player. After the New Orleans Pelicans handed the Kings their 50th regular season loss, a furious Westbrook personally called out reporters for various reports and comments made during the 2025-26 season.
Christie told reporters he hasn’t seen But he was pleased with Westbrook’s passion, according to Shawn Cunningham of KCRA News.
“I still haven’t seen what Russ said,” Christy said. “Listen, I’m proud that he’s passionate about what we’re doing, man. That’s what leadership is all about. He knows what we do here. He knows all the different aspects of it. He’s a student of the game. So, what was said was no big deal.”
Kings head coach Doug Christie talked about Russell Westbrook’s viral comments following his 50th loss of the season Thursday night, the 18 games remaining in the season, getting closer to regaining a focal point and not losing the sting of losing games. pic.twitter.com/zSgBdy81T1
– Sean Cunningham (@SeanCunningham) 7 March 2026
Doug Christie and the Kings (14-50) have the worst record in the NBA. They will look to get back to their winning streak when they host the Chicago Bulls on Sunday.
Russell Westbrook calls out Kings media after 50th loss
Kings veteran Russell Westbrook has had a rocky relationship with reporters before, but watching him call out reporters felt intensely personal, as if it was pent-up anger that had finally boiled over. Westbrook said he’s been trying but hasn’t had much success in his regular season efforts.
“You know, go out and compete. It’s a game. You go in and play professionally. That’s all you can do,” Westbrook said.
Then, Westbrook turned the conversation toward the reporters in the room.
“What do you all think, though? Because y’all got a lot of answers, and y’all always talk,” Westbrook said.
Russell Westbrook decided to reach out to the media after the game tonight. pic.twitter.com/UOgmGhV5OH
– James Ham (@James_HamNBA) 6 March 2026
Westbrook says he has noticed reporters offering opinions on things only people behind the scenes would know about, presenting narratives they know nothing about, which has continued throughout the Kings’ regular season.
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