Arizona State star Luguentz Dort wins NBA championship with Thunder

Congratulations to former Arizona State star Luguentz Dort, who became an NBA champion on Sunday night by helping lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to a win over the Indiana Pacers in Game 7 of the NBA Finals.

Dort, who was named to the NBA's All-Defense first team for this season, played a key part of the Thunder's 103-91 victory in Oklahoma City. Through 35 minutes played, Dort finished with 9 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 steals. His hustle and defense, which has become his trademark, were on display from the opening tip.

Born in Canada, Dort played high school ball at a couple different spots in Florida before committing to Arizona State, at the time the highest rated commit the program had seen since James Harden. Dort left for the NBA Draft after just one season, unexpectedly going undrafted, but he quickly carved out a role with the Thunder.

Dort was present for the Thunder's rebuild, predating current head coach Mark Daigneault and all their star players, but his consistent work ethic became a cornerstone for the team's resurgence. Now, he's hoisting the Larry O'Brien Trophy.

Ironically, Dort's win comes against two alumni from his former rival. Pacers players TJ McConnell and Benedict Mathurin both played college ball for the Arizona Wildcats, though not at the same time as Dort.

Also of note: Thunder star Jalen Williams played high school ball in Gilbert, Arizona and committed to Santa Clara for college, where he was coached by former Arizona State head coach Herb Sendek, who had previously coached the aforementioned Harden.

Congratulations to Dort for this historic milestone achievement, truly a deserving reward for such a talented player and one that will not soon be forgotten by Sun Devil fans everywhere.