Isaiah Hartenstein is no longer just an admirer from a distance; he’s now a full-fledged member of the Oklahoma City Thunder family. On Saturday, Hartenstein’s signing became official, and he shared his thoughts with the media, shedding light on why he chose to leave the New York Knicks for a new adventure in OKC.
One of the primary reasons for his decision? The Thunder’s stellar reputation. “The Thunder’s reputation precedes itself,” the 26-year-old said, emphasizing how the team’s culture and history influenced his move. Less than a week after news of his contract broke, Hartenstein’s excitement about joining the Thunder was palpable.
One of the standout moments in Hartenstein's transition to OKC was a warm welcome from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the MVP runner-up. Hartenstein shared how Gilgeous-Alexander reached out to him personally, welcoming him to the team. This gesture hinted at a promising partnership on the court, especially in pick-and-roll situations, where both players are expected to shine.
Reflecting on his journey, Hartenstein recalled his early days in Germany, where he eagerly watched the legendary Thunder teams featuring Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden. “OKC was always a team I was excited about,” Hartenstein reminisced, highlighting his long-standing admiration for the team.
But it wasn't just Gilgeous-Alexander who made Hartenstein feel at home. To his surprise, Russell Westbrook, a former MVP and a cornerstone of the Thunder from 2008 to 2019, also reached out. “Russ was probably one of the first guys that texted me,” Hartenstein revealed. “He said, ‘If you ever need anything— I think he said ‘the O’ or something— just let me know.’”
This unexpected gesture from Westbrook, who is still held in high regard by Thunder fans, was a heartwarming moment. Despite not playing for OKC for the past five years, Westbrook’s bond with the city and its fans remains strong. Hartenstein’s anecdote about Westbrook’s welcome was met with widespread positivity, further highlighting the deep connections within the Thunder community.
Joining the Thunder is not just a career move for Hartenstein; it’s a dream come true. Growing up, he watched the Thunder's rise with awe, and now, he gets to be part of that legacy. His excitement is contagious, and his integration into the team is poised to bring new energy and dynamics to the court.
Some exciting elements about Hartenstein's transition to OKC:
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Personal Welcomes: Not only did Shai Gilgeous-Alexander reach out to Hartenstein, but even Russell Westbrook, a Thunder legend, welcomed him warmly. This speaks volumes about the team’s camaraderie and the strong ties within the Thunder family.
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Childhood Dream: Hartenstein’s move to OKC is a childhood dream come true. Watching the iconic Thunder teams of Durant, Westbrook, and Harden during his youth in Germany has now come full circle as he joins the team.
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Pick-and-Roll Potential: Hartenstein and Gilgeous-Alexander's potential as pick-and-roll partners is an exciting prospect for Thunder fans. Their synergy on the court could lead to thrilling plays and game-changing moments.
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Thunder’s Reputation: The Thunder’s reputation for fostering a positive culture and strong team dynamics was a significant factor in Hartenstein’s decision. This speaks to the team’s continued efforts to build a supportive and successful environment.
Hartenstein’s journey from an admirer to a player in OKC is a testament to the Thunder’s enduring appeal and the strong bonds within the basketball community. His arrival is not just a new chapter for him but also an exciting development for Thunder fans eager to see what he brings to the team.
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