Alex Caruso’s basketball journey has always been about defying expectations — and now, he’s done it again. With confetti raining down and the Larry O’Brien Trophy in the background, Caruso stood on the championship podium as a two-time NBA champion. From undrafted G League hopeful to trusted veteran on one of the league’s grittiest teams, Caruso’s story is the stuff of legends. And this second title? It only cements his legacy as one of the most valuable role players of his generation.
Caruso’s second ring comes with the Oklahoma City Thunder, following their thrilling Game 7 victory over the Indiana Pacers in the 2025 NBA Finals. For a team filled with young stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams, Caruso’s leadership and championship experience were invaluable. He may not be the flashiest name on the roster, but his fingerprints were all over this title run.
From the moment he arrived in Oklahoma City via trade from Chicago, Caruso brought a championship mindset. His defense, hustle, and basketball IQ instantly elevated the team’s second unit, while his calm demeanor gave the young Thunder a needed veteran presence in clutch situations. During the Finals, Caruso’s ability to guard multiple positions, make the extra pass, and hit timely shots was crucial in several close games.
And when the clock hit zero in Game 7, there was no mistaking what the moment meant. As his teammates ran to celebrate, Caruso raised his arms in the air, beaming with the same emotion he had back in 2020, when he won his first ring with the Los Angeles Lakers. But this one hit differently. This wasn’t about playing alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis — this was about mentoring a new generation, showing them how to win, and doing all the little things that don’t always show up in the box score.
“Man, it feels just as good the second time around,” Caruso said in the postgame interview, holding his championship hat in one hand and the trophy in the other. “This team worked their tails off all year. To be a part of something this special, again — I’m just blessed.”
On the court, Caruso delivered when it mattered most. In Game 5 of the Finals, with the series tied 2-2, he hit a crucial corner three and followed it with a game-saving steal in the final minute to help OKC regain control of the series. His +/– rating throughout the playoffs was one of the best on the team, a testament to his impact beyond just stats. Thunder coach Mark Daigneault often praised Caruso’s professionalism and tone-setting presence, calling him “a glue guy that holds everything together.”
But the celebration wasn’t all speeches and interviews. Caruso, the fan favorite known affectionately as “The Bald Mamba,” turned up with the rest of his teammates in the locker room. He popped champagne, danced to the beat of the team’s playlist, and posed with the Larry O’Brien Trophy like it was his first time winning it. Videos of him spraying bubbly while wearing his custom Thunder shades quickly went viral, with fans and former teammates chiming in on social media to show love.
LeBron James tweeted, “AC the GOAT! Two rings and still locking up anybody in front of him! 💍💍🙌” while Chicago Bulls players, many of whom Caruso mentored during his time in the Windy City, shared heartfelt congratulations for a player universally respected around the league.
Caruso’s championship celebration continued with the team parade in downtown Oklahoma City. Riding a double-decker bus with the Thunder’s title squad, Caruso soaked it all in. He tossed T-shirts to the crowd, held up two fingers to signal his second ring, and flashed his signature smile to fans who have quickly come to adore him. In a team full of rising stars, he was the seasoned champion — and the crowd treated him like one.
“Alex Caruso is what every team dreams of having,” Thunder GM Sam Presti said at the parade rally. “Tough, smart, humble — and when the lights are brightest, he delivers.”
Now a two-time NBA champion, Caruso’s resume speaks for itself. He’s no longer just a feel-good story or a meme-worthy fan favorite. He’s a proven winner, a defensive savant, and one of the most reliable role players in the league. With two rings, multiple playoff moments, and the respect of peers across the NBA, Caruso has etched his name into the league’s modern history.
And as the celebrations continue, one thing is certain: Alex Caruso didn’t just ride the wave — he helped steer the ship. 🙌🏆
