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The Oklahoma City Thunder are headed to the Western Conference Finals. While the players handled business on the court, their partners quietly added another layer to the story. The spotlight shifted from buzzer-beaters to the sidelines. There, Alex Caruso’s fiancée, Haleigh Broucher, and Isaiah Hartenstein’s wife brought charm, superstition, and genuine support. It felt like more than just background noise.

Right after the nail-biting Game 7 win over Denver, Haleigh Broucher posted a celebratory—and slightly superstitious—message on social media: “On to the next. Also—while the jacket is THE MOMENT, remind me next season to pick a more subtle lucky item.”

That jacket—Caruso’s now-famous “lucky jacket”—has officially joined Thunder lore. It’s not just a quirky accessory; it’s a symbol of belief, a silent rallying cry. Isaiah Hartenstein stays focused on the court, but his wife, Kourtney Kellar, was all in on the moment.

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She doubled down, dropping two comments: “The LUCKY JACKET” and “See you & that jacket Tuesday.” Her words show she’s as invested in the ritual as she is in her husband’s presence in the paint. Alongside Broucher and Caruso, their support added a personal, heartfelt layer to the Thunder’s playoff journey. It’s a reminder that postseason battles are about belief and relationships as much as the game.

While Caruso and Hartenstein exhausted Nikola Jokić and executed their roles perfectly, their better halves stayed just as dialed in. From sideline support to social media superstition, the Thunder’s atmosphere felt tighter than ever. These aren’t casual observers—they’re part of the story.

Caruso’s defense and playmaking gave OKC an edge in clutch moments. Hartenstein’s bruising minutes in the paint helped the Thunder control the pace and keep Denver’s star in check. But beyond the stats, the emotional energy from their support systems added deeper confidence and connection to the team’s identity.

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What’s your perspective on:

Is Caruso's 'lucky jacket' the real MVP of the Thunder's playoff run?

Have an interesting take?

How Alex Caruso’s Lucky Jacket and Isaiah Hartenstein’s Drive Fuel OKC Thunder

Let’s be real—superstition hits harder when a guy doing the tough, thankless work carries it. Alex Caruso’s defense has been rock-solid. He’s sitting on a 101.5 defensive rating in the playoffs, ranking 13th according to StatMuse. Offensively, he’s steady too. He’s putting up 9.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game while drawing charges and knocking down clutch corner threes. That jacket? It’s more than just a fashion statement—it’s his mental switch, flipping him into game mode.

And that belief—whether stitched into a jacket or carved out in the paint—has powered more than just Caruso. Enter Isaiah Hartenstein—seven feet of “Not today, Joker.” He’s averaging 11.2 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 3.8 assists in the playoffs. In fact, according to Fox Sports, in their 2024–25 Defensive Rating Leaders, Isaiah Hartenstein also topped the list for stretches. His presence has been a nightmare for Denver’s Nikola Jokić. He’s shut down the MVP candidate’s usual dominance and helped the Thunder control the paint with relentless rebounding and shot-blocking.

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Superstitions in sports aren’t new. For example, Michael Jordan hid his UNC shorts under the Bulls jersey in ’97, and Rafael Nadal’s rituals are legendary. Every sport has its quirks. And Alex Caruso’s jacket? It’s earned its place in that tradition. Sometimes, a bit of belief—no matter how odd—can tip the scales.

Now, heading into the Western Conference Finals, OKC isn’t just carrying scouting reports and X’s and O’s. They’ve got a crew of believers, a social media hype squad, and one heck of a wardrobe wildcard. If that jacket shows up again? Buckle up—this ride’s just getting started.

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"Is Caruso's 'lucky jacket' the real MVP of the Thunder's playoff run?"

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