Isaiah Hartenstein Breaks an OKC Thunder Record

Oklahoma City’s offseason prize has been worth every penny.

Mar 27, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein (55) looks to pass against the Memphis Grizzlies during the second quarter at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images / Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

Oklahoma City’s season has been one for the record books. Even though it hasn’t been picture perfect — with multiple injuries scattered throughout — the final results have been an overwhelming success. This has been the franchise’s best team in its existence, and this Thunder squad has a great chance to win it all.

One of the biggest reasons why this Thunder team can go the distance is because of their offseason acquisitions. A season ago, Oklahoma City was an elite basketball team that secured the top spot in the Western Conference. But that team didn’t have a role player like Alex Caruso or a starting big man like Isaiah Hartenstein. As a matter of fact, Oklahoma City has never had a player quite like Hartenstein.

The big man was brought to Oklahoma City to rebound. The Thunder needed size and strength down low, and Hartenstein was an obvious answer as a free agent. The Thunder made him an offer he couldn’t refuse, and in turn, Hartenstein has been worth every penny. He has proven to be much more than just a rebounder, too — which is more than the Thunder could’ve asked for.

•

After Game 1 Blowout, OKC Thunder Must be Prepared for Memphis Response

•

Three Takeaways from Oklahoma City's Game 1 Statement Over the Memphis Grizzlies

•

Postseason Blowout Provides Valuable Minutes for OKC Thunder Rookies

•

Lu Dort Snubbed From NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year Award

•

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Nominated For NBA MVP Award

He has expanded his own game in Oklahoma City’s system, as the Thunder has helped cultivate is personal growth. The biggest area of exploration for Hartenstein has been as a hub on offense, tapping into his passing skillset and creativity. With the season winding down, Hartenstein has now recorded the most assists in a season by a Thunder center in franchise history — and there’s still nine games left.

Isaiah Hartenstein now has the most assists in a season by a center in Thunder history. Up to 202 on the year.

— Nick Gallo (@NickAGallo) March 28, 2025

Hartenstein is averaging career-highs in every category across the board with 11.4 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists. He has helped the Thunder generate offense and has transformed his game as a playmaker.

He's the best passing big man Oklahoma City has ever had, and he's just figuring out his strengths on offense.

---

Want to join the discussion? Like Thunder on SI on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to stay up to date on all the latest Thunder news. You can also meet the team behind the coverage.