Russell Westbrook is doubling down on his connection to Oklahoma City. The former Thunder MVP, who spent the first 11 seasons of his career with the franchise, is bringing his business ventures back to the city he still holds close to his heart.
Westbrook’s firm has partnered with Echo, a company founded by Oklahoma native Christian Kanady, to invest in Oklahoma City’s sports and entertainment scene. The eight-figure investment—reported to be at least $10 million—will help fund a new soccer stadium and more.
“I spent a significant amount of time in Oklahoma City, so to me, that place is very special and is like a second home,” Westbrook said.
At the center of the project is a 12,000-seat stadium for Oklahoma City Energy FC, a team in the USL Championship. The Energy haven’t played in recent seasons due to the lack of an adequate home field, but this development is set to change that.
The stadium isn’t the only focus, though. The project will also transform more than 40 acres in downtown Oklahoma City into an entertainment district. The area will feature restaurants, shops, and spaces for the community, just steps away from the convention center and Paycom Center.
This kind of development is becoming a trend across the country, giving fans more to experience on game days while boosting the local economy. With taxpayer funding also contributing to the project, the stadium is slated to open in 2027.
Westbrook, now in his 17th NBA season with the Denver Nuggets, has consistently proven himself as much off the court as on it. His investment portfolio already includes ownership in Leeds United, a Premier League soccer club, and he’s launched his own media company and clothing brand.
For Westbrook, this move isn’t just about business—it’s about giving back to a city that helped shape his legacy.
