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The Oklahoma City Thunder have quickly reestablished themselves as one of the NBA’s premier teams. Following their first championship since 1979 — back when the franchise was known as the Seattle SuperSonics — Oklahoma City has carried its championship form into the new campaign. Through the first 12 games of the 2025–26 season, the Thunder sit atop the standings with an 11-1 record, continuing to show why they remain the team to beat in the Western Conference.
One of the biggest surprises for Oklahoma City this season has been the strong play of Isaiah Hartenstein, who has stepped up in a major way amid injuries to key players. Despite the absences of Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams and Lu Dort for stretches of the season, Hartenstein has been a constant presence in the lineup and a reliable interior force on both ends of the floor.
In his last four games, Hartenstein has recorded three double-doubles, including a standout 33-point, 19-rebound, three-block performance against the Sacramento Kings. For the season, he’s averaging 12.9 points, 11.4 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.3 steals per game — all career highs aside from assists.
Hartenstein’s breakout has also paid off off the court. According to sneaker insider Nick DePaula, Hartenstein has signed a new shoe deal with Skechers. While he doesn’t yet have a signature sneaker, he’ll wear Skechers performance models during games.
Fans will get their first look at Hartenstein’s new shoes tonight when the Thunder face the Los Angeles Lakers — another high-profile test for the defending champs.
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