IRVING, Texas - If you've watched Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Russell Westbrook dominate the NBA playoffs, then the way he plays should remind you of a certain Dallas Cowboys wide receiver.
Westbrook -- the dude Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban claimed was not a superstar -- has averaged 26.9 points, 6.8 rebounds and 10.8 assists in the playoffs.
But it's the passion and ferocity Westbrook displays on the court combined with his strength and athleticism that should remind you of the way Dez Bryant plays on the football field.
"You're the fifth person today to tell me that," Bryant said with a grin. "Maybe, that's why we like each other so much."
Westbrook, who says the Cowboys are his favorite NFL team, gives the Thunder an energy and emotional boost no one else -- not even Kevin Durant -- gives his team, and Bryant does the same thing for the Cowboys.
When Westbrook hits a key 3-pointer, he brings out his six-shooters before thrusting them back into his imaginary holster. When Bryant scores a touchdown, he turns to the crowd and throws up the X.
Bryant brings an energy and natural enthusiasm to the Cowboys that they certainly missed last season when a broken right foot forced him to miss seven games. Everybody from coach Jason Garrett to quarterback Tony Romo will tell you that.
Each player also will drive you crazy at times.
Westbrook will take some of the worst shots you'll eve see, the kind that would land lesser players on the bench. Bryant will struggle for a yard with three players wrapped around his body, putting his health in jeopardy and occasionally leading to fumbles. But each man does it because he's singularly committed to winning in a way others aren't.
They both play without fear, a trait all great players must have. You can't be afraid to have the ball in your hands at winning time and be a great player.
Westbrook's performance is among the reasons why Oklahoma City is on the verge of eliminating the Golden State Warriors, who set the NBA's single-season record for wins, from the playoffs. Bryant's return to health is among the reasons the Cowboys feel so optimistic about this season. That's one more thing they have in common.