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**Caruso Credits LeBron’s Professionalism for Playoff Success as Thunder Head to NBA Finals**

**Oklahoma City, OK – June 11, 2025** – Veteran guard Alex Caruso is drawing on lessons learned from his time alongside LeBron James to guide the Oklahoma City Thunder in their NBA Finals run. The 31-year-old Caruso, now in his second Finals appearance after winning a championship with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020, emphasized the importance of professionalism and self-care, crediting James for instilling those values.

“Just the ability to be a pro,” Caruso said. “To go get your treatment, to eat right, to sleep, get in your recovery tights. The competitive greatness that he has that I’ve picked up from him (LeBron) and other guys has been a good addition to my mentality.”

Caruso, traded to the Thunder from the Chicago Bulls last summer, highlighted the cumulative effect of consistent preparation, especially over a long season. “Just being a pro, making sure I’m taking care of my body, my mind and bringing others with me,” he stated.

The Thunder are benefiting greatly from Caruso’s championship experience and leadership. In Game Two of the Finals against the Indiana Pacers, Caruso exploded for a season-high 20 points off the bench, including 4-8 shooting from three-point range, helping OKC secure a crucial victory after dropping Game One at home.

Caruso’s influence is undeniable, providing a veteran presence and valuable insights from his time with one of the game’s all-time greats. The series now moves to Indiana with the Thunder hoping Caruso’s ‘pro’ approach will continue to pay dividends.

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