.@taylorswift13 sings Russell’s praises! #0urMVP pic.twitter.com/5HgKeVrMsi
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) June 27, 2017
June 27 (UPI) -- Pop star Taylor Swift took some time from a brief hiatus to congratulate Oklahoma City Thunder star Russell Westbrook on his 2017 NBA MVP Award.
Swift resurfaced for the first time in several months to make the video, according to Rolling Stone.
She briefly introduced herself, before jokingly taking credit for all of Westbrook's basketball skills.
"Awe Russell, it's Taylor. Remember? I was the one who taught you how to play basketball," Swift said. "I was the one who taught you to dribble ... to shoot hoops. You know? I remember the first time you beat me at basketball and I was very upset and you said, if you remember correctly, you said 'you just have to shake it off.' And I got an idea."
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Swift was obviously referencing her hit song from 2014, Shake it Off.
"So, essentially, we have each other to thank for these careers, obviously. So that's why I'm part of your congratulations video, because we go back you know, what 20 years?"
Westbrook, 28, has made more than $100 million in on-court salary during his nine NBA seasons. He could still make close to $60 million if he plays out his current contract with the Thunder. But he is expected to renegotiate that deal or seek another contract in free agency. Swift, 27, has an estimated net worth of $280 million, according to Forbes.
She eventually fessed up to her gag in the video, which was posted to the Thunder's Twitter account Monday night.
"Actually, we've never met and that's a fake story, but I wish it were the truth. You are amazing. You are the MVP. I'm so happy for you. Sending you the biggest hug ever. Congratulations."
She ended the video by blowing him a kiss.
The Thunder All-Star attended a Swift concert in 2015 and has filmed himself singing along to her songs in his car.
Westbrook was attending the first annual NBA Awards Show Monday in New York City. His historic season of breaking Oscar Robertson's record for triple-doubles in a season and averaging the elusive stat in 2016 was the difference maker in the decision over fellow All-NBA selections James Harden and Kawhi Leonard. He gave a very emotional speech, thanking many people, including his mom, dad, brother and wife.
