The Unbelievable Rise of Alex Caruso: Why This Underdog Is Called the GOAT

Alex Caruso’s basketball career began as a modest but promising journey.

Coming out of high school, he was ranked as the 82nd best recruit in the ESPN top 100 in 2012.

He earned a scholarship to Texas A&M, where he spent four years playing a gritty, defense-first style of basketball.

Caruso was never the flashy scorer or the most athletic player, but he excelled at the little things—scrappy defense, diving for loose balls, and drawing contact fearlessly.

Despite his solid college career, Caruso went undrafted in the 2016 NBA Draft, a setback that would have ended many players’ dreams.

Undeterred, Caruso took the hard road, starting in the NBA Summer League with the Philadelphia 76ers but not securing a contract.

Soon after, the Oklahoma City Thunder signed him for their training camp but waived him before the season, assigning him to their G League affiliate, the Oklahoma City Blue.

Caruso spent the entire 2016-17 season in the G League, performing well but not enough to earn a call-up or a new contract with the Thunder.

The turning point came in the 2017 Summer League when Caruso joined the Los Angeles Lakers’ squad alongside rookie Lonzo Ball.

With Ball sidelined by injury, Caruso stepped up, leading the Lakers to a Summer League Championship and catching the attention of NBA executives.

The Lakers offered him a two-way contract, making him the first player to transition directly from the G League to a two-way NBA contract.

Caruso’s NBA debut came on October 19, 2017, against the Clippers.

That season, he split time between the Lakers and their G League team, showing flashes of potential but still adjusting to the NBA pace.

His breakout came in the 2018-19 season, where he improved significantly, especially on defense.

He became one of the league’s top defenders in the G League, earning Second Team All-NBA G League honors.

In 25 games with the Lakers, Caruso put up career highs, including a 32-point game and impressive all-around stats, becoming the only player besides LeBron James to record a 30+ point, 10+ rebound, and 5+ assist game for the Lakers.

In 2019, the Lakers rewarded Caruso with his first full NBA contract—a two-year, $5.5 million deal.

Some critics thought it was an overpay, but Caruso proved invaluable during the Lakers’ 2020 championship run.

His tenacity on defense and ability to spark the offense off the bench earned him the nicknames “Bald Mamba” and “Kus Show,” signaling his rise as a fan favorite and team leader.

Despite his contributions, the Lakers were unable to offer Caruso a more lucrative contract in the 2023 offseason due to salary cap constraints.

This opened the door for the Chicago Bulls, who signed him to a four-year, $37 million deal.

Many Bulls fans initially questioned the signing, not doubting Caruso’s talent but wondering if the price was too steep for a non-star player.

However, those doubts quickly faded as Caruso’s impact became undeniable.

Caruso’s value goes far beyond his salary.

Compared to many NBA players earning similar or higher salaries, Caruso’s production, defensive metrics, and efficiency stand out.

He has missed only one game this season, which coincided with the Bulls’ worst loss, highlighting his importance to the team’s success.

Statistically, Caruso leads the Bulls in defensive box plus-minus, steals per game (leading the entire NBA), and deflections.

His presence on the court elevates the team’s pace, transition play, and overall defensive performance.

Beyond numbers, Caruso brings intangible qualities that are priceless.

His vocal leadership, high basketball IQ, and relentless hustle inspire teammates.

He constantly communicates on defense, calls out switches, and energizes the team with his contagious enthusiasm.

This role as a glue guy—someone who holds the team together and elevates others—is reminiscent of former Bulls great Joakim Noah, who, despite not being the most athletic or skilled, was the heart and soul of his team.

Caruso’s story is more than just stats and contracts; it’s about resilience and proving doubters wrong.

From being undrafted and overlooked to becoming a key player on a championship team and now a cornerstone for the Bulls, Caruso exemplifies what it means to fight for your place in the league.

His rise is a reminder that talent alone isn’t enough—heart, hustle, and intelligence matter just as much.

As the Bulls continue their season, fans can expect Caruso to be a critical piece in their quest for success.

His defensive prowess, leadership, and energy make him a unique asset in today’s NBA.

While he may not have the star power of some teammates, his impact is felt every time he steps on the court, making him one of the most underrated and valuable players in the league.

In closing, Alex Caruso’s journey from a late high school recruit to an NBA champion and fan favorite is truly legendary.

His story inspires not only basketball fans but anyone who believes in perseverance and hard work.

As the Bulls look ahead, Caruso’s presence promises to be a driving force behind their future achievements.

For those who doubted him, the “GOAT” nickname might just be more fitting than anyone expected.