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Alex Caruso is staying in Oklahoma City, and he’s thrilled about it. The Thunder and Caruso have agreed to a four-year, $81 million contract extension, solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the team’s defense. This deal, announced by the team and first reported by Shams Charania of ESPN, more than doubles the $9.9 million Caruso is earning this season.

“Obviously, this is a place that I think is ascending, and that’s something I want to be a part of,” Caruso said about Oklahoma City. “I’m looking forward to hopefully a couple more years.” Now, it’s officially four.

Caruso, who became eligible for an extension six months after being traded from the Bulls, has proven himself indispensable to the Thunder. The undrafted Texas A&M alum has carved out a remarkable NBA career, rising from the G League to becoming a two-time All-Defensive Team player. Reflecting on his journey, Caruso said, “I think that’s just part of me not really settling for wherever I’ve been in my career. Like undrafted to G League with Mark [Daigneault, Thunder coach] for a year, to two-way to end-of-the-bench guy, to rotation player to important, first-team all-defense. Like, I’ve never been satisfied.”

While Caruso’s statistical contributions may not jump off the page—he’s averaging 5.7 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 2.4 assists this season—his impact is undeniable. He provides crucial secondary shot creation, knocks down three-pointers, and plays a pivotal role in the Thunder’s top-ranked defense. These qualities make him an integral part of Oklahoma City’s championship aspirations.

Caruso’s extension underscores the Thunder’s belief in his value to the team’s future. With the franchise building around its young core, locking down a proven leader like Caruso bolsters both the roster and the culture. For Caruso, the new contract is a reward for his perseverance and an opportunity to continue thriving in a system that values his contributions.

“I’ve never been satisfied,” Caruso reiterated, but with this extension, he has every reason to feel confident in his place on an ascending Thunder team. As Oklahoma City solidifies its contender status, Caruso’s grit and defensive prowess will remain at the heart of their success.

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