“Two years in a row averaging a triple double… still gets criticized… y’all need to stop” — Dwyane Wade‘s support for Russell Westbrook has been consistent. However, so has been the criticism against Russ from a certain section of NBA fans. But the 9x All Star’s latest initiative is earning him immense love and support from fans and NBA stars alike. And no one seems to be happier than D-Wade for the due respect to Westbrook.

The 3x NBA champ took to Instagram, supporting his friend’s latest project. Sharing Russ’ post, Dwyane Wade made it clear, in his IG story, where the spotlight should be. “The coverage The Westbrooks should be getting. This is🔥,” the Miami Heat icon wrote in the caption.

Teaming up with the L.A. Promise Fund, Westbrook recently opened the Westbrook Academy in South Los Angeles. Imagine a place where over 400 middle and high school students can dream big and get the support they need to make it happen. That’s exactly what Westbrook envisioned when he decided to give back to LA.

As most fans would know, Russ was born in Long Beach, California, but he grew up in South Central Los Angeles. And now, he even owns a $33.5 million mansion in the city. Across the street from his former teammate LeBron James’ home. Apart from this, even the Nuggets star’s wife, Nina Earl, shares a history with the city. Born in Pomona, California, Earl played college basketball for LA’s University of California, just like her husband.

No wonder that the love for the city runs deep within Westbrook, which explains his caption to his IG post, featuring the ribbon cutting ceremony from the inauguration. The 9x All Star tried captured the spirit of his mission with his words. “LEGACY… Think… WHYNOT… Grateful and blessed beyond words…,” he wrote. The academy seems Russ’ way of ensuring that kids from similar backgrounds, as his, have the resources to succeed.

Speaking with Good Day LA, Westbrook expanded on his motivations. Recalling the lack of opportunities he had as a child. And he’s determined to change that for today’s generation. “… To have an opportunity to partner with LA Promise to bring something like this to South LA for their kids, for their families… What’s most important in education is our future,” he said.

And if you’re thinking this is just a side project, think again. The 9x All Star may have had short-lived stints with LA Lakers and Clippers but seemingly, he possesses a deep commitment to leaving a legacy in LA, not just on the court, but off it. “I’m LA to the core… legacy is what you leave behind… And I want to help as many people as possible,” he told FOX 11 Los Angeles.

NBA community extends its support to Russell Westbrook

Among the first to show support was Carmelo Anthony, his former teammate with the Thunder and Lakers. In true Melo fashion, he kept it short and sweet. “WHY NOT… It’s only right… HONORABLE…” Melo commented on Russ’ IG post.

Another huge name, Stephen Curry, showed his love by re-sharing Westbrook’s post on his IG story. Congratulating not only Russ but his entire family on this big achievement. But that’s not all. Dejounte Murray, clearly inspired by the project, described it as “motivation”.

Meanwhile, Norman Powell, one of Russ’s former Clippers teammates, also extended his support for the 9x All Star. “That’s so tough brotha 🔥🔥. Congrats. Changing lives forever,” he wrote on Instagram. It’s clear that Russell Westbrook not only has fan support but backing from his colleagues in his new project.

Stay tuned for more updates. Join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host, BG12, sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.