Alex Caruso, now set to play for the Oklahoma City Thunder, expressed his gratitude to LeBron James for helping shape his NBA career.
Caruso, who was traded from the Chicago Bulls earlier this season, acknowledged the significant impact James had on his development as a player.
“LeBron James’ love gave me confidence,” Caruso shared, emphasizing how the support from the NBA superstar boosted his self-belief.
Caruso highlighted that receiving encouragement from a player of James’ stature meant a lot to him, helping him realize his potential on the court.
“It gave me the confidence in myself to believe that what I was doing was right,” Caruso continued, reflecting on the importance of James’ mentorship.
He credited James for helping him believe that his skills could contribute meaningfully and be decisive in NBA games.
Alex Caruso praises LeBron’s support for helping him become the player he is today 🙌
“LeBron James’ love gave me confidence. Coming from someone of that stature… that means a lot. It gave me the confidence in myself to believe that what I was doing was right. It helped me… pic.twitter.com/wr3dTsbZaC
— Basketball Forever (@bballforever_) August 26, 2024
Caruso added that his goal has always been to be on the court during crucial moments and to have a chance to influence the outcome of games.
Last season, Caruso was recognized for his defensive prowess, earning a spot on the NBA All-Defensive First Team for the first time in his career.
He posted career-high averages of 10.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in 28.7 minutes per game.
Caruso’s time with James in Los Angeles played a pivotal role in his development, with the duo winning an NBA championship together in 2020.
Now, as Caruso embarks on a new chapter with the Thunder, he carries with him the lessons and confidence gained from his time with James.