Caruso’s Shoe Block Goes Viral: “That’s Never Happened to Me Before”
Alex Caruso delivers one of the most bizarre moments of the NBA season: a block attempt with his shoe results in a technical foul
During an NBA night filled with action, one of the most unusual moments of the season featured Alex Caruso. The Oklahoma City Thunder guard found himself in the spotlight for a play that was as instinctive as it was unconventional: a block attempt… with his shoe.
A sequence that quickly went viral on social media – and one that cost Caruso a technical foul.
The bizarre play: shoe block and technical foul
During the Thunder’s latest game, Caruso crossed into truly uncharted territory. In an attempt to contest an opponent’s shot, he used a shoe he had lost during the play to deflect the ball.
A move as spectacular as it was illegal, leading officials to call goaltending and issue a technical foul.
Caruso reacts: “That’s never happened to me before”
Speaking postgame, Caruso addressed the moment with honesty, admitting the play was completely improvised:
That’s never happened to me before. I thought I could block the shot, but honestly I didn’t even know what the call would be
Alex Caruso
He then added:
As soon as I had the shoe in my hand, I thought about using it. Not in a malicious way, just trying to stop the ball. It’s one of those weird plays we probably won’t see again for another ten years
Alex Caruso
Isolated incident or warning sign?
The episode remains more curious than serious, but it could have indirect consequences. Referees – already accustomed to the physicality of Caruso’s defense – might now take a stricter approach in evaluating his plays.
For a player whose impact is built on constant defensive pressure, that could represent a small but meaningful adjustment.
Thunder rising: defense and leadership
Despite the incident, Oklahoma City continues to trend upward, led by the talent of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who has recently made headlines in the chase for Wilt Chamberlain-level records.
Within this context, Caruso remains a key piece: less flashy offensively, but crucial when it comes to shifting momentum through defense, energy, and instincts.
It won’t make any defensive manuals – but this play has already earned a place among the most absurd and unforgettable moments in NBA history.