Alex Caruso is an American professional basketball player known for his defensive prowess and versatility on the court. Born on February 28, 1994, in College Station, Texas, he stands 6 feet 5 inches tall and primarily plays as a shooting guard or small forward.
Early Life and Education
Caruso attended A&M Consolidated High School in College Station, where he averaged 18 points and nine rebounds per game as a senior. He earned All-State honors and was named district MVP after leading his team to the postseason.
He continued his basketball career at Texas A&M University, becoming the school’s all-time leader in assists (649) and steals (276). In his senior year, he led the Aggies to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament and received second-team All-Southeastern Conference honors, along with a spot on the SEC All-Defensive Team.
Professional Career
- Los Angeles Lakers (2017–2021): After going undrafted in 2016, Caruso joined the Lakers, where he played a pivotal role in their 2020 NBA Championship win. He was recognized for his defensive skills, earning first-team All-NBA Defensive honors in the 2022–2023 season and second-team honors in the 2023–2024 season.
- Chicago Bulls (2021–2024): In the 2021 offseason, Caruso signed a four-year, $37 million contract with the Bulls. He continued to be a defensive asset, contributing significantly to the team’s performance.
- Oklahoma City Thunder (2024–Present): In July 2024, Caruso was traded to the Thunder in exchange for Josh Giddey. He signed a four-year, $81 million contract extension in December 2024, reflecting his value to the team.
Personal Life
Caruso comes from a basketball family; his father played at Creighton University and later served as an associate athletic director at Texas A&M. He has two sisters and majored in sports management during his college years. In August 2024, it was announced that he became engaged to former Big Brother contestant Haleigh Broucher.
Recent Developments
As of March 2025, Caruso continues to be a key player for the Thunder, known for his defensive contributions and leadership on the court. His journey from a local standout in Texas to an NBA champion and defensive specialist highlights his dedication and impact in professional basketball.