Russell Westbrook’s “rock the baby” taunt is the perfect sports insult

The OKC star has created a new jab that’s caught on. Now, his latest celebration is a T-shirt for fans to enjoy.

Nov 6, 2018, 7:51 PM UTC

If you buy something from a link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics statement.

BreakingT

Russell Westbrook and Patrick Beverley have a long history of beef.

Last week, Westbrook added to the saga after scoring on Beverley by driving past him with a scoop layup in the Thunder’s 128-110 win over the Clippers.

Here’s what happened.

Notice what Westbrook does after the play? Yep, he’s “rocking the baby.”

Oh, and things didn’t stop there

In the fourth quarter, Beverley ran into Westbrook and was charged with a flagrant foul. Beverley’s foul was reminiscent of the 2013 incident (that started their beef) in which Westbrook tore his meniscus. Things got heated for a moment.

Ultimately, Westbrook got the better of the matchup, finishing the game with 32 points and nine assists along with the win.

After the game, Westbrook had something to say about his longtime foe: “Yeah, you got little kids, you got little babies, put ‘em to sleep... That’s what happens. Little guards, you gotta rock ‘em.”

Now, it’s a T-shirt.

Put ‘Em To Sleep T-shirt for $26

BreakingT

Since then, Westbrook has continued to serve helpless defenders with the “rock the baby” taunt

Later in the week, Russ brought it back after he scored on John Wall and Bradley Beal.

And it’s picked up steam around the NBA as well

Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson also appeared to “rock the baby” after scoring on Minnesota Timberwolves guard Tyus Jones.

It’s even made its way into college football

As Slate noted, Iowa State wide receiver Hakeem Butler also “rocked the baby” after scoring a touchdown against Kansas.

See, this is the beauty of beef. Long live NBA beef and all the drama that comes from it.

Unfortunately, we may not be seeing Westbrook’s “rock the baby” taunt for a bit

The Thunder picked up their fifth straight win against the New Orleans Pelicans on Monday night, but it came at a steep cost. In the third quarter, Westbrook rolled his ankle and left the game. The Thunder are calling the injury an ankle sprain, but there’s no word yet on how long the MVP will be sidelined.

Looking for more product reviews, shopping guides, and good deals on sports merchandise and apparel? Check out our Buy Stuff section.