As the NBA Finals loom, Game 7 between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers stands as a pivotal moment in the season. For the Thunder, the stakes couldn’t be higher as they strive for their inaugural NBA championship. The atmosphere is tense, with immense pressure on a team that has battled hard to arrive at this crucial juncture in a demanding series.
After Saturday’s practice, Thunder forward Isaiah Hartenstein shared his thoughts on navigating the pressure of such a decisive game. In an unexpected twist, he drew parallels between the intensity of Game 7 and the initial challenges he faced early in his professional career.
“I think AC said last Game 7. I think my whole career has kind of been a Game 7. As weird as it sounds, I might have been more nervous going into training camp when I was on a training camp deal than now. That was where I was fighting, low-key, for my career,” Hartenstein remarked.
Isaiah Hartenstein said he was more nervous at the start of his career fighting to get in the NBA than he is for tomorrow: “My whole career has been a Game 7.” pic.twitter.com/PsZ7QeJyrZ
— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) June 21, 2025
“Just those moments where you don’t understand it at the time kind of help you now navigate what I’m going through right now,” he added.
Isaiah Hartenstein Embraces Selfless Role In Thunder’s Championship Pursuit
Isaiah Hartenstein is demonstrating that a winning culture transcends mere talent. In a recent interview on SiriusXM NBA Radio, the Thunder forward offered fans insight into his selfless approach as the team approaches the possibility of capturing an NBA title.
“I could play 1 minute, 40 minutes, touch the ball all game or not. If we’re winning, it doesn’t matter to me,” Hartenstein stated.
Hartenstein’s path has not always been straightforward. After navigating through various rosters before finding his current spot on a Finals-bound team, he recognizes the significance of each moment on the court. Yet, rather than chasing personal stats, he is directing his energy toward aiding a team that stands poised for championship glory.
Image Source: Isaiah Hartenstein @ Instagram
