Russell Westbrook reveals why he ignores the standard 8-hour sleep rule throughout his career: "Going nonstop, that's kinda how my life is"
Russell Westbrook has been one of the most polarizing stars of his generation, but his place among the NBA’s Top 75 players is unquestioned after 18 seasons in the league.
The road hasn’t been as smooth in recent years, with Westbrook now embracing a reserve role. At his peak, he was one of the league’s most explosive point guards, turning every game into a highlight reel. From ripping passing lanes to crashing the boards and diving for loose balls, the “Mr. Triple-Double” era was defined by relentless energy and effort.
Given his style of play, one would assume Westbrook has a strict regimen off the court, and that was certainly the case. However, the former Oklahoma City Thunder MVP didn't prioritize a crucial aspect of health and wellness — sleeping as he averages only 5-6 hours of sleep.
"I feel like when I sleep longer, I don't feel the best. Going nonstop, that's kinda how my life is. That's kinda how I function," Russ told GQ in 2021.
"I'll get seven or eight hours of sleep every once in a while, but that's not my norm by any means. I've always been kind of like this: stay up late, but I'm up early," added Westbrook, who is often revered for his high motor.
Staying in great shape
While Westbrook may want to reconsider his sleep schedule, the veteran guard remains particular about his training and diet. Russ starts his day at 7 A.M. with anywhere from 25 to 50 push-ups to get his body moving, followed by breakfast, which is his favorite meal of the day
Westbrook's extravagant breakfast varies from day to day, consisting of fruits, green and orange juice, omelets, avocado toast, pancakes, waffles, or hash browns. For snacking during the day, the two-time scoring champion prefers peanuts, parfaits, yogurt, and smoothies.
As for lunch and dinner, Russ has dialed back on meat, sticking primarily to fish and salad. He also likes his veggies and pasta. Nearing his retirement, Westbrook wants to be his leanest self without sacrificing his strength. Apart from eating healthy, the nine-time All-Star has updated his hydration practices, especially the quality of the water he drinks.
"Me being an ambassador and partner in Flow, that was an important thing, and having alkaline water and seeing how it's better for your body, for recovery, being able to use that," he said. I'm drinking Flow all day long just to stay hydrated," mentioned Brodie, who also has specific workouts designed as per his needs.
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Hitting the weight room
Westbrook's muscular, well-built frame may suggest he spends hours in the weight room, but the reality is different. Surprisingly, Russ doesn't lift much weight while targeting exercises that focus on movement, stability and mobility, with sand-dune workouts being his all-time favorite.
"I've been doing it for so long, so I know how to manage it, and how much I need and how long I need to be there. So it's not painful at all. It definitely helps, in my legs, in my endurance," said Westbrook.
Whatever one may say about Westbrook's style of playing or not winning a ring so far, nobody can ever question his intent towards the game. As for his sleep schedule, the veteran guard should aim for the standard 7-8 hours for better recovery, especially as he is fighting Father Time right now.
This story was originally published by Basketball Network on Apr 28, 2026, where it first appeared in the Off The Court section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
