Russell Westbrook has described playing in the NBA's All-Star game as a "blessing" after he won the annual match's MVP award.
Oklahoma City Thunder point-guard Westbrook scored 41 points to lead the Western Conference to a 163-158 win over their counterparts from the East.
Westbrook was appearing in his fourth All-Star game but his first for two years after he was forced to miss the 2014 edition through injury.
When asked how it felt to be part of the showpiece again, Westbrook told reporters: "Definitely a blessing, man.
"You never want to take no games off, especially an All-Star Game to get a chance to go out and show your talents. I'm blessed to be able to play the game that I love, and definitely happy we got the win."
By scoring 41, Westbrook fell one shy of the all-time All-Star record of 42 held by Wilt Chamberlain, also becoming just the third man to score 40, with Michael Jordan the other to reach the mark.
"It's definitely an honour to be grouped with those two guys, especially in the All-Star Game," Westbrook added.
Westbrook is averaging 25.8 points, 7.6 assists and 6.3 rebounds for the Thunder this season.
