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Alex Caruso Makes Strong LeBron James Statement After Thunder Win NBA Title

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nathan Dougherty | Last updated Jun 23, 2025 2:15 AM ET

Alex Caruso won an NBA title with LeBron James on the Los Angeles Lakers five years ago, and now has one playing alongside another league MVP with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

But while the veteran Caruso sees a bright future for Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, he's not ready for a direct comparison to James.

Speaking to reporters after the Thunder claimed the NBA title with a Game 7 win over the Indiana Pacers on Sunday, Caruso was asked whether he could see Gilgeous-Alexander growing into the face of the NBA like James has been.

Caruso, who played a key role when the Lakers won the title in 2020, said it's difficult to compare any other player to James simply because of the attention he garnered even before playing his first minute in the NBA. But Caruso added that he believes Gilgeous-Alexander has what it takes to become the "face" of the NBA.

"Comparing to LeBron is a crazy start just 'cause LeBron was anointed at 18 years old and surpassed everything that has ever been put in front of him," Caruso said. "As far as face of the league and best player on best team, SGA's got that capability."

Gilgeous-Alexander made a bit of history in the NBA Finals, becoming just the fourth player in league history to win a scoring title, league MVP, and NBA Finals MVP in the same season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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