Alex Caruso's Winning Impact Draws Praise From OKC Thunder Teammates

The Oklahoma City Thunder are taking on the Memphis Grizzlies in the First Round of the NBA Playoffs and it has been clear from the word go that Alex Caruso has been an impressive addition.

23Apr 4, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Alex Caruso (9) warms up prior to the game against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images | Erik Williams-Imagn Images

It was a historic comeback from the Oklahoma City Thunder to cement a 3-0 series lead over the Memphis Grizzlies in the first round of the NBA Playoffs.

Oklahoma City erased a 29-point Memphis lead to grab hold of a 114-108 win over the Grizzlies in Game 3.

One of the stars from Thursday night was defensive ace Alex Caruso who logged five points, four points, four rebounds, two assists and four steals to go along with a blocked shot all in the second-half en route to a +19 plus-minus in the half.

The former Chicago Bull totaled 10 points, six rebounds, three assists, four steals and a block on 57% from the floor and 1-for-3 from beyond the arc.

"He turned the tide for us for sure. He knows how to win. He's been a part of winning teams. He's a competitor, and obviously that's why he's here," All-Star Jalen Williams said postgame.

There is no question Caruso not only changed this game, but the entire complexity of the Oklahoma City Thunder, especially in the NBA Playoffs.

Williams was not the only Thunder teammate to lob praise toward Oklahoma City's veteran defensive ace.

“Man, that dudes a winner. You know if you are going to lifetime that’s the type of guy you pick first. Love playing with people like that," Second year center Chet Holmgren said with a chuckle. “He’s such a smart player. And when you are really smart you where to be, when to be there and how to make a play."

Up next, the Oklahoma City Thunder attempt to sweep the Memphis Grizzlies by finishing off the series in Game 4 on Saturday at 2:30 PM CT.