Alex Caruso shocked the basketball world after his Oklahoma City Thunder secured their first NBA championship in years. In a viral postgame moment, Caruso jokingly said, “Now I’ve got a real one,” referring to his 2020 Lakers bubble ring. What prompted this bold statement, and how did he later explain his comments? Get the full, jaw-dropping details now! 👇👇

Alex Caruso Wins Second NBA Title, Then Takes a Shot at LeBron James and Lakers’ Bubble Championship

In a dramatic Game 7 on Sunday night, Alex Caruso and the Oklahoma City Thunder capped off an historic season with a 103-91 win over the Indiana Pacers, securing the franchise’s first NBA championship since relocating from Seattle. While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was named Finals MVP, it was Caruso, the veteran guard, who made waves with a spicy remark about his first NBA title with the Los Angeles Lakers during the COVID-19 bubble.

Caruso’s Viral Moment: “Now I Got a Real One”

During the postgame press conference, Caruso delivered a comment that quickly went viral, joking, “Yeah, now I’ve got a real one. Now no one can say anything,” in reference to his first NBA championship with the Lakers in 2020. That title, which was won during the COVID-19 bubble, has long been a source of controversy, with critics questioning its legitimacy due to the unique circumstances of the pandemic and the absence of fans. Caruso’s playful remark immediately ignited debate, with many fans and commentators discussing whether his comment was a dig at his former team and LeBron James, or just a lighthearted jab.

In typical Caruso fashion, he later took to X (formerly Twitter) to walk back the statement with his signature shrug. “I had 3 beers already, it’s SARCASM!” he clarified, adding to the playful nature of the entire exchange. Still, the comment left fans and pundits debating whether it was a calculated jab at the Lakers’ “bubble ring” or just an off-the-cuff remark from the newly crowned champion.

From Bubble Role Player to Thunder’s Defensive Backbone

Caruso’s role in the 2020 Finals was modest, averaging just 24 minutes per game and contributing a handful of steals with only one double-digit scoring performance. Fast forward to 2025, and Caruso has become a key figure in the Thunder’s championship run, playing 28 minutes per night and contributing double-digit scoring in four games. His 17 total steals, including three in Game 7, were a testament to his value on both ends of the floor.

OKC’s gamble on Caruso in a trade for Josh Giddey last offseason has proven to be a stroke of genius. Caruso’s defensive tenacity and leadership were exactly what the Thunder needed as they pushed their way to the NBA title, providing the veteran presence needed to guide a roster of young, talented players through the pressure of a postseason run.

A Ring for the Critics

While Caruso’s journey from undrafted G League player to two-time NBA champion is already a remarkable tale, this second title may silence some of the critics who’ve dismissed his first ring as a “bubble fluke.” That 2020 title, won in the isolation of the NBA’s Orlando bubble, had been met with skepticism by some, with a portion of the basketball community questioning whether it truly counted in the same way as titles won in a normal season.

This second championship validates Caruso’s place among the league’s top players, solidifying his status as a legitimate contributor to championship teams. With this win, he becomes one of only 10 active players with multiple NBA titles, joining the ranks of fellow champions like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Jrue Holiday, who also won titles in the 2020s.

Oklahoma City’s Historic Season

The Thunder were dominant all season long, finishing with 68 regular-season wins, ranking sixth all-time. Their league-best point differential highlighted their superior play, with a combination of pace, length, and energy that overwhelmed opponents from start to finish. This championship victory, which capped a historic season for OKC, was a testament to the team’s growth and development under head coach Mark Daigneault.

Caruso, who has earned the nickname “Uncle Caruso” from his younger teammates, provided invaluable leadership in the locker room. In the post-championship celebrations, Caruso was seen teaching the rookies how to properly pop champagne bottles, adding to the lighthearted atmosphere in the Thunder’s locker room after the historic win.

The Road Ahead for Caruso and OKC

With the title now in hand, the future looks bright for both Caruso and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Caruso’s experience, leadership, and defensive prowess will continue to be crucial for the team, as they aim to build on their championship foundation. The Thunder’s young core, including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Josh Giddey, and Chet Holmgren, has now been complemented by a seasoned champion in Caruso, and the team is poised to continue its rise as a force in the NBA.

As for Caruso, this second title further cements his legacy in the league. His journey from G-League obscurity to NBA champion is a testament to his hard work, resilience, and ability to thrive under pressure. With his leadership and defensive impact, Caruso is far from finished, and fans are eager to see what’s next for him and his team as they look to defend their crown.