Isaiah Hartenstein traps himself with ‘underdog’ claim to media

There was a time when this Oklahoma City Thunder team could be described as an underdog story with players cast off from other teams. Following the Thunder’s Game 7 loss to the San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference Finals, Isaiah Hartenstein recalled playing in the G League before finding a home in OKC, as per Joel Lorenzi of The Athletic.

But after his initial post-Game 7 remarks, Isaiah Hartenstein reflected on how the perception of the Thunder is much different now. When asked what he meant by that, Hartenstein didn’t really have a response.

“I mean it’s … next question,” he answered.

This is shaping up to be a crucial offseason for Hartenstein. The Thunder hold a team option on his contract for the 2026-27 season. He understands the business aspect of the NBA, but all things considered he would like to remain with the team.

“I love being here, I love the organization,” Hartenstein said. “A lot of it is in their hands. I think them and my agent will talk. It’s a business at the end of the day, but again, whatever happens, I’m truly grateful.”

Hartenstein has been a key contributor for the Thunder since they signed him as a free agent ahead of the 2024-25 season. During the team’s playoff run this season, he averaged 9.1 points, 8.3 rebounds and 2.6 assists with splits of 63.3 percent shooting from the field and 76.7 percent shooting from the free-throw line.

In the Game 7 loss to the Spurs, he finished with seven points, five rebounds and one steal in 21 minutes. Much has been made about the Thunder’s precarious cap situation amid their pending contract extensions, and they’ll have to make a decision as to whether or not Hartenstein is valuable to them or not.

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