Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images

Teammate explains what sets SGA apart after breaking LeBron James’ record, makes 2020 Lakers comparison

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Bergas Agung | Last updated Jun 23, 2025 1:33 AM ET

The Oklahoma City Thunder claimed their first NBA title in franchise history, completing a remarkable season that saw them overcome all odds.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a masterful Finals MVP performance, capping off his perfect season after capturing the regular season MVP award.

The Thunder’s championship run proved that young talent and determination can overcome experience when it matters most.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander breaks LeBron James‘ achievement

In the Finals that was overshadowed by Tyrese Haliburton’s injury, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander posted 29 points and 12 assists in the decisive game.

His performance secured him a place in basketball history alongside LeBron James. SGA became the first player since LeBron in 2013 to win both MVP and Finals MVP in the same season.

This rare achievement instantly elevated him into the greatness conversation, with teammates and opponents taking notice of his exceptional season.

Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images

Alex Caruso Weighs in on SGA’s historic achievement

Former LeBron teammate Alex Caruso spoke about Gilgeous-Alexander’s accomplishment after the Finals concluded.

Caruso believes SGA has proven himself capable of being both a team leader and the face of the NBA.

“Yeah, I mean, comparing to LeBron is a crazy start just because LeBron was anointed at 18 years old and surpassed everything that has ever been put in front of him,” Caruso said.

“But he’s got that capability. I mean, clearly, the year he’s had MVP, Western Conference Finals MVP, Finals MVP, champion.”

Caruso:

"Comparing to Lebron is a crazy start just cuz Lebron was anointed at 18 years old and surpassed everything that has ever been put in front of him. As far as face of the league and best player on best team, SGA's got that capability. He'll probably be hungry for more" pic.twitter.com/haTzY1FbAf
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) June 23, 2025

Caruso tells what sets SGA apart from LeBron James

Caruso highlighted what makes Gilgeous-Alexander special beyond his on-court abilities. The veteran guard emphasized SGA’s mental approach and competitive drive that separates him from other elite players.

“I don’t think anybody in here would question his ability, and I think the thing that sets him apart is he’ll probably be hungry for more,” Caruso explained.

“He probably won’t be satisfied with just winning this one time. He’ll want to do it again. He’ll want to be better.”

“Yeah, now I got a real one — now no one can say anything.”

— Alex Caruso

(via @DParkOK)pic.twitter.com/0i9ilWdGX3
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) June 23, 2025

Caruso’s championship perspective, 2025 vs 2020

The veteran guard also reflected on his second championship, having previously won with the Los Angeles Lakers alongside LeBron James.

Caruso described this Thunder title feeling more meaningful due to the team’s construction and youth.

“I think just because of the way the team is constructed now versus the team I had in 2020, it was much harder with this team just because of the experience,” Caruso said.

“Everybody talked about you need experience to win a championship, and good basketball is good basketball.”

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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