Jordan sees himself in Westbrook: '30 years ago, that's me'

Fresh off signing an extension with the Oklahoma City Thunder, it's up to Russell Westbrook to lead the team to contention in the wild West. No longer will he play second fiddle to Kevin Durant, who signed with the Golden State Warriors last month.

The All-NBA point guard is ready to take over, and everyone - including NBA legends - recognizes that.

He was central to a short film promoting the Air Jordan XXX1 - of which he's the main endorser - receiving some high praise from His Airness, who at a young age was also tasked with carrying his squad.

"Thirty years ago, that's me," Michael Jordan said of Westbrook, according to Complex's Russ Bengtson. "The attitude, trying to prove myself, showing so much passion for the game of basketball. You see it in his play. You can tell he loves the game, he plays with energy and flair."

Westbrook has drawn comparisons to the GOAT before, but not from the man himself.

"That's crazy," the 27-year-old said. "I really don't know what to say. To have the best player who ever played the game to say that about you as a player and as a person is something that is going to keep me striving."

The five-time All-Star averaged 23.5 points, 10.4 assists, 7.8 rebounds, and two steals last season, while leading the league with 18 triple-doubles. With an even more prominent role in the upcoming campaign, expect even more mind-blowing numbers from him.