Alex Caruso Says He’s Robin Not Batman After Superhero Comparisons

Alex Caruso Embraces Robin Role While Thunder Fans See Superhero

Alex Caruso faced reporters after Game 4 of the NBA Finals with a question about his newfound superhero status among Thunder fans. With two 20-point performances in the Finals – something he hadn’t managed once during the regular season – the question seemed fair.

But Caruso wasn’t having it.

“For the superhero reference, we’ll just do Robin because that’s the only one I can probably make some similarities to,” he said with characteristic modesty. “I’ve got better players around me that are doing more.”

His coach sees things differently.

“He’s a competitive monster, clearly,” Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault told reporters. “He’s proven that time and again over his career. Certainly in these playoffs… I can’t say enough about him as a competitor.”

At 31, Caruso isn’t just the oldest player on the Thunder roster. He’s the only one with a championship ring, bringing invaluable experience to a young team on the biggest stage.

“He plays the game, he thinks the game and he’s also coaching the game all at the same time,” teammate Cason Wallace explained. “He’s always a few steps ahead.”

Caruso’s journey to NBA stardom wasn’t exactly smooth sailing.

Despite being a four-star recruit out of high school, no NBA team drafted him. He had to fight for every opportunity.

Even Rick Carlisle, then coaching the Mavericks, once sent Caruso packing after a workout.

“Some of these guys that go under the radar have that level of grit and determination that is able to get them to the league and to get them some longevity and high impact,” Carlisle admitted recently.

That determination defines Caruso’s approach to basketball.

“It just comes down to really wanting to win, being super competitive,” Caruso explained. “That’s why my career is the way it is. That’s why I’ve had success. That’s why I’m still in the NBA. That’s why I’m here talking to you right now.”

Robin or Batman, one thing’s clear – the Thunder wouldn’t be where they are without him.