Alex Caruso’s Journey in Professional Basketball
Alex Caruso began his journey in professional basketball in Oklahoma City, where he arrived in September 2016 with aspirations of joining the NBA. The Thunder extended him an invitation to an Exhibit 10 contract tryout, which included the opportunity for $50,000 and a spot on their G League team, the Oklahoma City Blue. Caruso was among six players vying for this chance; however, unbeknownst to him, the coaching staff had already set their sights on him. Mark Daigneault, then head coach of the Blue and now the Thunder’s head coach, recognized Caruso’s tenacity from his performances at Texas A&M, recalling how Caruso played with relentless energy during a challenging game against Florida. Unlike the other participants, Caruso’s understanding of the game shone through, leading him to take a surprising leadership role during the tryout.
Establishing Himself in the G League
Winning a spot on the Blue’s roster, Caruso earned a $13,000 salary and soon established himself as a vital leader on a 34-16 team that reached the G League playoffs’ second round. He attributes that season to developing a strong foundation, making him a defensive powerhouse in the league, eventually earning him an NBA championship title with the Los Angeles Lakers a few years later. Fast forward to the present, Caruso has returned to Oklahoma City as an experienced veteran on one of the youngest and most talented teams in the league. His presence is felt both on and off the court, especially as the Thunder embarks on a deep playoff run. After a tough game one loss against the Indiana Pacers in the NBA Finals, Caruso and the Thunder are gearing up for a crucial game two at home.
Overcoming Challenges
However, the path leading to his current success was not without its challenges. During his initial season with the Blue, Caruso often found himself sidelined when teammates received NBA call-ups. Despite support from Daigneault and former Blue general manager Brandon Barnett, he was not offered a two-way contract; a decision that Thunder GM Sam Presti later admitted was a mistake. Following his departure from Oklahoma City in 2017, he signed with the Lakers, where he developed into a key contributor during their championship run in the 2019-20 season. Afterward, he moved to the Chicago Bulls, earning All-Defensive selections and solidifying his reputation as a formidable defender.
Return to Oklahoma City
Eventually, Presti corrected his past oversight by trading for Caruso last summer, bringing him back to the Thunder to play a crucial role in their championship aspirations. This acquisition, along with the free agency signing of Isaiah Hartenstein, has significantly strengthened the Thunder’s roster. Caruso’s integration into the team is seamless; he provides not just defense, but also plays the role of a facilitator for the younger players on the team, including standout players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams. His understanding of the game allows him to be a strategic asset, adapting his defensive responsibilities based on the matchups from game to game.
Impact Beyond Statistics
Although Caruso’s offensive numbers are modest—averaging 6.9 points and 2.8 assists per game—his impact is felt through his energy and defensive prowess. His iconic defensive performance against Nikola Jokic during a playoff game showcased his ability to disrupt even the best in the league, as he cleverly navigated the challenges of defending a much larger opponent.
Mentorship and Leadership
Caruso’s influence extends beyond the court stats. He embodies a competitive spirit that inspires his younger teammates, who eagerly absorb his knowledge. He has taken on a mentorship role, especially with second-year guard Cason Wallace, guiding him in becoming more effective on defense while encouraging a balance with the mental aspects of the game. Caruso, at 31, leads a Thunder team averaging just 24.5 years, often embracing banter about being the oldest player. Despite all the light-hearted teasing, he has established himself as a valued presence in the locker room, earning the respect of his teammates and contributing towards a culture of togetherness and high performance.
Looking Ahead
As the Thunder look to rally from a Finals game one defeat, Caruso’s leadership and experience will be pivotal in shaping the team’s journey through the playoffs. With a profound understanding of both the game and the competitive spirit needed to win, he is determined to guide this talented group towards its championship goals, bringing his full circle experience back to where it all began in Oklahoma City.
