If you follow basketball, you know the "Brodie." He is all snarls, triple-doubles, and a motor that literally never stops. But if you look at his life off the hardwood, there is a much calmer, more intentional story unfolding. Russell Westbrook and wife Nina Earl have been together for nearly two decades, which is practically an eternity in the world of high-profile professional sports.
They aren't just another NBA couple. Honestly, they are a blueprint.
From UCLA Courts to the Italian Coast
The whole thing started at Westwood. Back in 2007, Russell and Nina were both student-athletes at UCLA. He was the explosive guard for the men’s team; she was a versatile 6'1" forward for the Bruins women’s program. Nina wasn't just there for the ride—she was a legit player who could play almost every position on the floor.
The spark was instant. "I see what I wanted and I took it," Russell famously joked during an appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show. Nina usually tells a slightly more nuanced version of the story, but the result was the same. They became college sweethearts long before the MVP trophies and the hundred-million-dollar contracts.
They dated for seven years before Russell finally popped the question in 2014. By the time they tied the knot at the Beverly Hills Hotel in August 2015, the NBA world showed up in full force. Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Kevin Love were all there to watch them dance their first dance to Lauryn Hill.
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Fast forward to late 2025, and they’ve hit a massive milestone. To celebrate a decade of marriage, the couple headed to Portofino, Italy, for a breathtaking vow renewal. Surrounded by the Mediterranean sunset and their three kids, they recommitted to each other. It wasn't just for show. It felt like a public acknowledgement of a partnership that has survived the absolute meat grinder of NBA trade rumors and intense public scrutiny.
Nina Earl: More Than Just a "Wife"
One of the most refreshing things about Russell Westbrook and wife Nina is that Nina is an absolute powerhouse in her own right. She didn't just stop after her basketball days ended. She leaned into her education, earning a master’s degree in clinical psychology.
Nina is a licensed marriage and family therapist. That’s a big deal.
While Russell is navigating the tail end of a legendary career, Nina has built an empire focused on mental wellness and community:
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- Bene by Nina: A digital platform and brand centered on self-care and mental health.
- Minibrook: A sustainable children’s apparel line she launched in 2020.
- The Little Ark: A boutique she originally opened in Oklahoma City that evolved into her current ventures.
- Do Tell: Her podcast where she tackles the "theatre of modern love" and mental health, often featuring Russell as a guest.
She’s basically the glue. Russell has been vocal about the sacrifices she’s made, moving from Oklahoma City to Houston, then DC, and back to Los Angeles. "She’s been holding s--- down from start to finish," Russell told People. It’s a rare level of public vulnerability for a guy known for his "Why Not?" bravado.
The Family Dynamic and the "Why Not?" Legacy
Raising three kids in the spotlight is never easy. The Westbrooks have a son, Noah (born in 2017), and twin daughters, Skye and Jordyn (born in 2018). You’ll often see them sitting courtside, though Nina has been open about the challenges of protecting her children from the more toxic side of NBA fandom.
When fans started targeting the family with online harassment during Russell's more difficult seasons, Nina didn't stay quiet. She spoke out about the impact of the "Westbrick" name-calling and the death threats, emphasizing that at the end of the day, there are real humans behind the jerseys.
Their shared legacy is most visible through the Why Not? Foundation. This isn't just a tax write-off. They are deeply involved in South LA, particularly through the Russell Westbrook Why Not? Academy. They provide resources for middle and high school students that many of these kids wouldn't have access to otherwise.
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What Most People Get Wrong
People often assume celebrity marriages are all about the red carpets and the "Gram-worthy" vacations. While the Westbrooks definitely have those moments, their foundation is built on a shared athletic background and mutual respect.
They speak the same language.
Because Nina was an elite athlete herself, she understands the pressure, the travel, and the physical toll. But because she’s a therapist, she also knows how to navigate the emotional toll. That combination is likely why they’ve outlasted so many other high-profile relationships. They treat their marriage like a team sport.
Actionable Insights for a Stronger Partnership
You don't need a $200 million contract to learn from the Westbrooks. Here are a few "pro-style" tips for any relationship:
- Shared Mission: Find a cause or a project to work on together. Whether it's a charity or just a weekend hobby, having a common goal builds unity.
- Respect Individual Identity: Nina’s career is independent of Russell’s. Supporting your partner’s personal growth—even when it's inconvenient—is crucial.
- Communication over Competition: Nina joked that she had to stop playing Russell in basketball because he "cheated," but in real life, they clearly communicate their needs through every "trade" and life transition.
- Protect the Inner Circle: When the outside world gets loud (or "toxic" in the NBA sense), tighten the circle. Focus on the people in the house, not the comments on the screen.
The story of Russell Westbrook and wife Nina is still being written, but they’ve already proven that you can be a fierce competitor on the court and a devoted, supportive partner off of it. They aren't just surviving the spotlight; they are using it to build something that will last long after the final buzzer sounds.