Where did Alex Caruso go to college? For fans who admire his defensive tenacity and hustle in the NBA, this question points to the foundation of his success. The answer is Texas A&M University, where Caruso’s leadership and work ethic transformed him from a local high school standout into one of basketball’s most respected professionals. His journey from College Station to the national stage is a story of discipline, loyalty, and relentless effort.
Early Life in College Station, Texas
Alex Caruso was born on February 28, 1994, in College Station, Texas. Growing up in a city deeply tied to the Aggie spirit, basketball was more than just a game—it was part of his environment. His father, Mike Caruso, served as an associate athletic director at Texas A&M, and young Alex often spent time around the university’s athletic facilities. Those early experiences gave him a front-row seat to what dedication at the college level looked like.
At A&M Consolidated High School, Caruso quickly earned a reputation as a versatile guard who could score, pass, and defend. He led his high school team with impressive performances and gained attention for his intelligence on the court. Despite his skill, he wasn’t heavily recruited by major national programs, which only motivated him further. Staying close to home and representing Texas A&M became both a dream and a statement of pride.
Choosing Texas A&M: A Hometown Commitment
When Caruso committed to Texas A&M University in 2012, it was a decision rooted in loyalty and belief. He didn’t chase prestige or fame. Instead, he chose to play for his hometown team, determined to grow under the guidance of the Aggies’ coaching staff. Texas A&M, part of the Southeastern Conference (SEC), offered the perfect platform for him to prove that heart and determination could compete with any national program.
The Aggies valued Caruso’s combination of defensive instinct, passing ability, and leadership potential. Those traits would soon make him a cornerstone of the team, but his path wasn’t easy. Caruso had to earn every minute of playing time, which he did through sheer effort and consistency.
The Beginning of a College Career: 2012–2013 Season
Caruso’s freshman year at Texas A&M showed flashes of what was to come. Playing in 33 games, he averaged 5.5 points, 3.4 assists, and 1.8 steals per game. Coaches noticed his basketball IQ and defensive awareness, two qualities that separated him from many first-year players. While others focused on scoring, Caruso found ways to influence the game through hustle plays and smart decision-making.
His defensive commitment quickly became his identity. He often guarded the opposing team’s best perimeter player, setting the tone for Texas A&M’s defense. Though his numbers weren’t eye-catching yet, his presence on the floor changed the team’s rhythm.
Stepping Up: Sophomore and Junior Seasons
By his sophomore year (2013–14), Caruso emerged as the Aggies’ starting point guard and team leader. He led the SEC in both assists and steals, averaging 9.0 points, 5.0 assists, and 2.0 steals per game. His court vision and defensive anticipation became trademarks of his play. Teammates often relied on him to organize the offense and maintain composure under pressure.
During his junior season (2014–15), Caruso continued to mature. He improved his shooting mechanics, expanded his playmaking range, and took on a mentoring role for younger teammates. His consistency earned him recognition as one of the top all-around guards in the SEC, respected for his intelligence and teamwork rather than highlight-reel moments.
Caruso’s effort was never about personal stats. His focus was on winning and improving the Aggies’ program—a mindset that would later define his NBA career.
Senior Season and Leadership Breakthrough
The 2015–16 season was Caruso’s defining year in college basketball. As a senior, he captained the team and helped Texas A&M reach new heights. The Aggies finished the regular season tied for first place in the SEC and advanced to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament, their deepest run in over a decade.
Caruso averaged 8.1 points, 5.0 assists, and 2.1 steals per game, demonstrating balance across all facets of the game. His defensive energy and poise in critical moments were instrumental during close tournament matchups. One of his most memorable performances came in the dramatic double-overtime win against Northern Iowa, where Texas A&M completed one of the largest comebacks in NCAA history. Caruso’s leadership and composure helped spark that comeback.
By the end of his college career, Caruso had established himself as one of the most complete guards ever to wear the Aggies uniform.
College Career Records and Achievements
Caruso’s four years at Texas A&M left a permanent mark on the program’s record books. His all-around game and consistency placed him at the top of several statistical categories:
| Statistic | Record / Ranking at Texas A&M |
|---|---|
| Career Assists | 649 (All-time leader) |
| Career Steals | 276 (All-time leader) |
| Games Played | 137 |
| Total Points | Over 1,000 |
Beyond the numbers, his leadership style set a lasting example for the Aggies’ future players. Coaches frequently praised his dedication in practice, his calm under pressure, and his ability to lift the performance of those around him.
Going Undrafted and the Fight for an NBA Spot
After graduating in 2016, Caruso entered the NBA Draft but went undrafted—a setback that many players might have seen as the end of the road. For Caruso, it was just another challenge to overcome. He joined the Philadelphia 76ers’ Summer League roster and later played in the NBA G League with the Oklahoma City Blue.
His defensive focus, high energy, and team-first mindset stood out to coaches and scouts. In 2017, he earned a spot on the Los Angeles Lakers’ Summer League team, where he made an immediate impact. His hustle and defensive plays quickly caught attention, leading to a two-way contract with the Lakers.
Breaking Through with the Los Angeles Lakers
Caruso’s rise in Los Angeles was a testament to perseverance. He split time between the Lakers and their G League affiliate before earning a full-time roster spot. Fans admired his relentless work ethic, and his teammates trusted him to handle tough defensive assignments. His chemistry with LeBron James made him a valuable rotation player.
The pinnacle of his time with the Lakers came during the 2019–2020 season, when the team captured the NBA Championship. Caruso played key minutes in the playoffs, delivering crucial defense and energy off the bench. His transformation from undrafted rookie to NBA champion became one of basketball’s most inspiring stories.
Joining the Chicago Bulls and Becoming an NBA Leader
In 2021, Caruso signed with the Chicago Bulls, where he continued to build his reputation as one of the best perimeter defenders in the league. His leadership extended beyond statistics—he brought intensity, communication, and stability to a young Bulls roster.
Under head coach Billy Donovan, Caruso thrived in a system that valued defense and versatility. In 2023, he earned a spot on the NBA All-Defensive First Team, a recognition that highlighted his elite skill on that end of the floor. His ability to guard multiple positions, read offenses, and force turnovers made him a cornerstone of Chicago’s defensive strategy.
As of the 2025–26 NBA season, Caruso remains one of the most respected and hard-working players in the league. His journey continues to inspire undrafted athletes and college players across the country.
The Role of Texas A&M in His Success
Caruso’s success story cannot be understood without recognizing the foundation built at Texas A&M. The university not only developed his technical skills but also instilled in him the values of accountability and teamwork.
Key lessons from his college years include:
- Leadership Under Pressure: Guiding teammates through tough SEC battles prepared him for high-stakes NBA moments.
- Defensive Discipline: His mastery of defensive fundamentals at Texas A&M became the backbone of his professional career.
- Unselfish Play: Leading his team in assists reflected a mindset that prioritized collective success.
- Consistency: Four years of steady improvement showed the importance of patience and long-term growth.
Caruso often credits his college experience for shaping both his basketball identity and his mindset. The discipline and humility he learned as an Aggie remain visible every time he steps on an NBA court.
Texas A&M’s Pride in Its NBA Star
Texas A&M University continues to celebrate Alex Caruso as one of its most successful basketball alumni. His accomplishments have brought renewed attention to the Aggies’ program, serving as proof that persistence and hard work can produce professional greatness.
Caruso has maintained close ties to the school, returning to College Station for basketball events and community activities. His presence serves as motivation for the next generation of Aggies athletes who aim to follow in his footsteps
Where Did Alex Caruso Go to College? The Foundation of a Champion
So, where did Alex Caruso go to college? The answer remains central to his identity: Texas A&M University. It’s the place where he learned the values that propelled him from a local Texas gym to NBA arenas packed with fans. His years as an Aggie shaped his defense-first mentality, leadership style, and unwavering dedication to improvement.
Caruso’s story is more than a sports narrative—it’s a lesson in persistence, showing that success isn’t limited to those who take the most direct path. From College Station to Chicago, every step of his journey carries the spirit of the Aggies with him.
Alex Caruso’s rise from Texas A&M standout to NBA star reminds every aspiring athlete that hard work, loyalty, and patience can turn a dream into reality. Share your thoughts on his college career and how it influenced his success below!