The Oklahoma City Thunder are the reigning champions, hoping to earn back-to-back titles.
They have one of the deepest rosters in the league, but it’s clear that their top player is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Speaking about Gilgeous-Alexander, Alex Caruso opened up about his teammate, what makes him so great, and why he is headed toward a spot in the Hall of Fame.
“Greatness doesn’t rest. That’s what I’ve seen from the guys in the league that are Hall-of-Famers… Shai comes in every day like he’s trying to make the team. He’s the most competitive guy on our team day in and day out… I’ve seen it with countless of other guys I’ve been around that are going to have jackets at the end of their careers,” Caruso said.
Alex Caruso on SGA wanting more rings: “Greatness doesn’t rest. That’s what I’ve seen from the guys in the league that are Hall-of-Famers… Shai comes in every day like he’s trying to make the team. He’s the most competitive guy on our team day in and day out… I’ve seen it with… pic.twitter.com/EuxZeMHgPi
— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) October 8, 2025
If Gilgeous-Alexander has more seasons like the one he just enjoyed, Caruso will be right about his Hall of Fame prediction.
In 2024-25, Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 32.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.4 assists.
He led the league in points and then became MVP, Western Conference Finals MVP, and Finals MVP.
Earning his first championship title was just one of the many outstanding moments from last year for Gilgeous-Alexander.
The great news for Thunder fans is that Gilgeous-Alexander and his team might actually get better in the new season.
They have already climbed the tallest NBA mountain, but most people believe they can sustain this level of output, and they could be at the beginning of a dynasty.
The competition will be tough, of course, but Gilgeous-Alexander has the sort of attitude that will push him and his teammates throughout the season.
If Gilgeous-Alexander is able to have a season that comes close to last year’s, this won’t be the last time that he is named MVP and champion.
NEXT: Payton Pritchard Has Honest Admission About Thunder's Playoff Run