Russell Westbrook and James Harden's matchups, from teammates in Oklahoma City to perennial All-Stars and MVPs leading rival contenders, have consistently delivered high-octane drama and unforgettable plays. Here's a highlight reel capturing their most electrifying confrontations.
Regular-Season Fireworks
The Ultimate Duel (January 2020): Facing off as Houston Rockets teammates for the first time since the trade that sent Westbrook to Houston, the pair orchestrated a thriller. Westbrook notched a triple-double (28-16-13) against the OKC Thunder, but Harden drilled the game-winning three-pointer in his former home arena. The emotional intensity was palpable.
Westbrook's Triple-Double Mastery (April 2019 - Rockets vs. Thunder): Westbrook, fueled by a booing Oklahoma City crowd in his return post-trade, delivered a massive triple-double (29 points, 12 rebounds, 10 assists), showcasing relentless drives and transition dominance against Harden's Rockets.
Harden's Scoring Barrage (February 2020 - Thunder @ Rockets): Reunited teammates now opponents again (Westbrook back with Houston, Harden traded to Brooklyn), their fiery competitiveness remained. Westbrook attacked relentlessly, while Harden, facing a different Houston team, erupted for 42 points, including clutch step-back threes.
Playoff Showdowns
MVP Showdown - The Beard Edges Brodie (2017 West Semifinals, Rockets vs. Thunder): The defining playoff series of their rivalry. Harden eliminated Westbrook's Thunder 4-1, cementing his MVP case. Key moments include:
- Game 4 Thunder Win: Westbrook exploded for a 35-point triple-double, willing OKC to their sole victory with ferocious drives and transition plays.
- Game 5 Rockets Closeout: Harden responded decisively with 34 points and 8 assists, draining crucial step-backs down the stretch to seal the series.
Memorable Moments & Legacy
The Emotional Reunion (December 2019 - Rockets @ Thunder): Westbrook's first game back in OKC as a Rocket, initially alongside Harden. The emotional reception for Westbrook contrasted with the fierce competition, culminating in a Rockets win where both stars made critical plays. Harden drained dagger threes late.
The Evolution from Teammates to Rivals: Their history adds layers to every matchup. The transition from young stars supporting Durant in OKC (reaching the 2012 Finals) to becoming MVP alpha dogs leading their own franchises defined the intense, respectful nature of their clashes. Respect was earned through battle.
A Showcase of Contrasting Brilliance: Their face-offs epitomized different paths to superstardom: Westbrook's explosive athleticism, relentless attacks on the rim, and triple-double ferocity vs. Harden's surgical step-back shooting, unparalleled isolation scoring mastery, and playmaking wizardry.
The Westbrook-Harden duel consistently offered elite individual brilliance and high stakes, etching their battles into NBA rivalry lore.
