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UCLA Basketball: Watch Aging Ex-Bruin Elevate For A Slam in Year 16

The former All-Star still has it!

Jason Fray

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He might be a polarizing player, and he might annoy the heck out of you if you're a fan of his team.Β 

However, without a doubt, no one can take away the fact that former UCLA Bruins great Russell Westbrook is still one of the best athletes in the NBA.Β 

It's absolutely astounding that Westbrook has been able to maintain such a level of intensity, effort, and athleticism throughout his 16-year career. As he prepares to turn age 35 next month, Westbrook is still destroying opponents at the rim.Β 

Look no further than last night -- where the LA Clippers starting point guard absolutely unleashed on the Portland Trail Blazers:

As the Clippers got out in transition, Westbrook beautifully filled the 'runway' lane on the opposite end of the court. Fellow Southern California native Paul George got the ball and beautifully set up Westbrook for the one-handed lob jam.Β 

Credit Westbrook for making an adjustment on the pass, which wasn't exactly right on the money. Snagging it out of the air with one hand, the former UCLA star was still able to slam it home with ease.

Rookie Scoot Henderson had his 'welcome to the NBA' moment -- which was beautifully captured via this picture. He grew up reportedly a huge fan of Westbrook. As the image shows, he couldn't hide his fandom while getting the best possible view of Westbrook slamming it home.Β 

As the starting point guard for the Clippers, Westbrook was very efficient in only 29 minutes of floor time. He went 5/8 from the field for 11 points. However, he also managed to grab five rebounds and accrue 13 assists in the 12-point victory.Β 

Without a doubt, it appears as if Westbrook is still far from finished as a productive basketball player.Β 

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Jason Fray
JASON FRAY

Jason Fray is a proud native of Los Angeles. After graduating from UCLA in 2011, he's written for a number of publications -- including Bleacher Report, FOX Sports, Saturday Down South, and New Arena. In his downtime, he enjoys writing scripts, going to shows, weekly pub trivia with the boys, trying the best hole-in-the-wall food spots around town, and traveling (22 countries & counting).Β