Alex Caruso Reflects on His Journey: From Undrafted Rookie to ‘Jokić Stopper’ and Key Veteran Leader in the Western Conference Finals

Alex Caruso’s NBA journey has been one of perseverance, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The story of how an undrafted rookie out of Texas A&M went from the G League to playing a pivotal role in the Western Conference Finals is nothing short of remarkable. Known for his tenacious defense, high basketball IQ, and unrelenting work ethic, Caruso has earned a reputation as one of the league’s most valuable role players. But for Caruso, his entire career has felt like one long, high-stakes Game 7 — a continuous battle to prove himself, a game where the stakes are always at their highest.

From his humble beginnings with the Oklahoma City Thunder’s G League affiliate to becoming an integral part of championship-winning teams and now a veteran leader with the Oklahoma City Thunder (OKC), Caruso’s career trajectory showcases what happens when an athlete refuses to give up on their dreams, no matter how daunting the journey may be. In this piece, we’ll take a deep dive into Caruso’s career, his mindset, and how he has continuously overcome obstacles to become one of the most respected players in the NBA.

The Undrafted Rookie: A Humble Beginning

When Alex Caruso entered the 2016 NBA Draft, he was not the highly sought-after prospect that other players like Ben Simmons or Brandon Ingram were. In fact, Caruso went undrafted, a fate that is all too familiar for players who don’t have the pedigree of high draft picks but possess the talent and determination to make an impact in the league.

Caruso’s story began at Texas A&M, where he was a standout performer, known for his defensive prowess, playmaking ability, and leadership on the court. Despite his strong college career, NBA scouts were unsure about his ability to make the jump to the professional ranks. His lack of size and offensive consistency were cited as potential barriers to making an NBA roster. Yet, Caruso’s relentless work ethic and competitive fire were never in question.

After going undrafted, Caruso was waived by the Oklahoma City Thunder, a pivotal moment that could have derailed his career dreams. But for Caruso, this setback was just another part of the challenge. Instead of succumbing to disappointment, he used it as motivation to prove everyone wrong. He was determined to make it — not just to the NBA, but to stay in it and make a lasting impact.

The G League: A Crucial Step in Caruso’s Development

After being waived by the Thunder, Caruso found himself in the G League, where he played for the Oklahoma City Blue, the Thunder’s affiliate. While it might have seemed like a step down for most, Caruso took it as an opportunity to hone his game, knowing that the path to the NBA would require extraordinary dedication. During his time in the G League, he worked tirelessly on his skills, and he caught the eye of his future coach, Mark Daigneault.

Daigneault, who was coaching the Oklahoma City Blue at the time, recognized Caruso’s potential. He saw a player with a defensive intensity that could fit perfectly into the NBA’s evolving style of play. Caruso’s ability to lock down opposing players and create turnovers, combined with his basketball IQ, made him an ideal fit for the defensive-minded culture Daigneault was building. The time Caruso spent in the G League was not just a chance to showcase his skills but also a period of growth where he transformed his weaknesses into strengths. He came back to the NBA a more refined player, ready for his next opportunity.

From G League to NBA Champion: The Lakers’ Call

Caruso’s hard work paid off when he earned a spot with the Los Angeles Lakers during the 2017-2018 season. His first season with the Lakers was not without its challenges. As an undrafted player, he had to constantly prove himself in a highly competitive environment. He was not guaranteed a spot on the roster, and each game felt like it could be his last. But Caruso’s relentless play caught the attention of head coach Frank Vogel, who saw the value in having a player who could defend at an elite level while also being a steady presence on offense.

It wasn’t long before Caruso became a fan favorite for his hustle plays, high-flying dunks, and exceptional defense. The Lakers were in the midst of their rebuilding phase, but with LeBron James and Anthony Davis now leading the team, the addition of Caruso to the roster brought a new dimension to their defense. His ability to guard multiple positions, play smart, and be a vocal leader in the locker room made him invaluable to the Lakers’ success.

In 2020, Caruso’s hard work culminated in the ultimate reward: an NBA championship. The Lakers’ victory in the NBA Bubble was a monumental achievement for the franchise, and Caruso’s role in the team’s success should not be overlooked. He was one of the key defensive players who helped contain some of the NBA’s best scorers, and his ability to play within the team’s system was crucial in helping the Lakers secure their 17th title. Caruso wasn’t just a supporting player; he was an integral part of the team’s championship run.

The Move to Chicago: Caruso’s All-Defense Legacy

After his time with the Lakers, Caruso joined the Chicago Bulls in 2021, where he continued to build on his reputation as one of the NBA’s elite defenders. With the Bulls, Caruso’s game elevated even further. He earned recognition for his defensive versatility and leadership, often guarding the opposing team’s best player while still providing a steady offensive presence.

Caruso’s defensive intensity and ability to make game-changing plays became his trademark. Whether it was a crucial steal, a timely block, or a lockdown defensive possession, Caruso’s defensive contributions were often the difference between a win and a loss. He quickly became a cornerstone of the Bulls’ defense and earned a spot on the NBA All-Defensive team.

During his three seasons with Chicago, Caruso cemented his place as one of the league’s premier defenders. His influence on the court was palpable, and the Bulls became a much tougher team to face when he was on the floor. He was the embodiment of hard-nosed basketball, always willing to sacrifice his body to get a stop and make the winning play.

The Return to OKC: Caruso’s Leadership and Defensive Prowess

In a surprising turn of events, Caruso was traded back to Oklahoma City in 2025. This trade, orchestrated by Sam Presti, was part of the Thunder’s long-term strategy to build a team around a strong defensive core. Presti recognized Caruso as the “quintessential Thunder player,” one who embodied the grit, toughness, and selflessness that defined the Thunder organization. It was a full-circle moment for Caruso, who had once been waived by the Thunder but was now being brought back as a veteran leader.

Caruso’s leadership on the Thunder has been invaluable. His experience and championship pedigree have been crucial for a young team that is still learning how to win at the highest level. Caruso’s defense continues to be his calling card, and he was recently dubbed the “Jokić Stopper” for his heroic defensive performance against Nikola Jokić in a pivotal Game 7 matchup. His ability to contain the reigning MVP in critical moments was a testament to his defensive versatility and his unyielding will to win.

But Caruso’s value extends beyond his defense. As a savvy veteran, he has become a mentor to Oklahoma City’s younger players, especially to players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey. His guidance has been instrumental in helping them develop their games and navigate the challenges of the NBA. Caruso is more than just a defender; he is a leader, someone who helps shape the culture of the team.

Caruso’s Legacy: A Career Built Like a Game 7

Throughout his entire career, Alex Caruso has treated every moment like a Game 7 — the ultimate high-stakes game where every possession matters. From his days as an undrafted rookie, to his rise through the G League, to his success with the Lakers and the Bulls, Caruso has approached every step of his journey with the intensity and focus of a player who knows that nothing is ever guaranteed. For him, every game, every practice, every offseason is an opportunity to prove that he belongs.

Now, as Caruso continues to play a pivotal role for the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Finals, his career has come full circle. What started as a struggle to even make an NBA roster has transformed into a legacy of resilience, determination, and championship success. Alex Caruso has not just earned his place in the NBA; he has defined himself as one of the league’s most valuable players — a two-time NBA champion, an All-Defensive team player, and a leader who has consistently shown that hard work and perseverance can overcome any obstacle.

Caruso’s career is far from over, and if he continues to play with the same intensity and dedication, there’s no telling how much more he will accomplish. But one thing is certain: Caruso will continue to play every game like it’s a Game 7 — because for him, it always has been.