Introduction to the NBA Finals Celebration
Oklahoma City relished a raucous atmosphere at Paycom Center after the team won the NBA title for the first time in the city’s history.
The Unfazed Baby
But there was someone not fazed by the rowdy cheers and excitement of 18,000-plus fans. That someone was Isaiah Hartenstein’s baby son. As the Thunder celebrated being crowned the latest NBA champions, fans noticed how Hartenstein’s son was knocked out asleep on his father’s chest on the podium. Even teammate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, also named Finals MVP, helped prop up his head to avoid being further slumped.
Reaction from the Father
ESPN reporter Lisa Salters talked to Hartenstein on the podium and asked him about his son. "I don’t know why he’s asleep right now, but I guess it’s not loud enough," Hartenstein said before giving fans an order. "I’m going to need y’all to get louder real quick."
The Unsuccessful Attempt to Wake the Baby
Despite the fans’ increased volume of cheers and claps, the baby remained knocked out. The scene was met with amusement and admiration from the NBA community.
Reactions from the NBA Community
The NBA world had plenty of reactions to the moment, including former Oklahoma City star Kevin Durant, who congratulated his ex-team for its victory.
"Lil Hartenstein is slumped 😂😂😂 congrats Okc." — Kevin Durant (@KDTrey5) June 23, 2025
"Hartenstein’s baby sound asleep on his chest during this raucous celebration is just about the sweetest thing I’ve ever seen." — Beth Moore (@BethMooreLPM) June 23, 2025
"All the players trying to get Hartenstein to lift his kids head up was comedy 😂" — Rui Montilla (@RuiMontilla) June 23, 2025
A Moment to Remember
It’ll make a great story for Hartenstein to tell his son one day when he’s grown up. Pacers legend Jalen Rose explains how the Oklahoma City Thunder built a "juggernaut" and are in "pole position" to win the 2025 NBA Finals.
Conclusion
The image of Hartenstein’s baby sleeping through the Thunder’s NBA championship celebration will be remembered as a heartwarming moment in sports history. It showcases the joy and excitement of winning a championship, as well as the unpredictable nature of children.
FAQs
- Q: Who is Isaiah Hartenstein?
A: Isaiah Hartenstein is a player for the Oklahoma City Thunder. - Q: What was notable about Hartenstein’s son during the celebration?
A: Hartenstein’s son was asleep on his father’s chest during the celebration. - Q: How did the crowd react when asked to get louder by Hartenstein?
A: The crowd increased their cheers and claps, but the baby remained asleep. - Q: What did Kevin Durant say about the moment?
A: Kevin Durant congratulated the Oklahoma City Thunder and commented on the baby being asleep, saying "Lil Hartenstein is slumped 😂😂😂 congrats Okc."
