NBA Finals Shock: Isaiah Hartenstein’s Son Misses Trophy Celebration—Find Out What Happened Next!

Sunday night was a whirlwind of emotions, jubilation, and milestones—though for one little guy named Elijah Hartenstein, it was more a serene nap than a roaring celebration. At just about a year old, Elijah couldn’t quite grasp the enormity of the moment—his dad, Isaiah Hartenstein, was basking in the glow as the Oklahoma City Thunder clinched their first NBA championship since the franchise’s move from Seattle. While the crowd roared and trophies were hoisted, Elijah, innocently oblivious, stole hearts by snoozing peacefully on the sidelines—unfazed by the noise, truly making him the unexpected star of the ceremony. Isaiah’s solid performance, including seven points and nine rebounds in the decisive Game 7 victory against the Pacers, capped off a triumphant season—and although Elijah might not recall the trophy presentation, his presence there marks a family milestone destined to be etched in history and memory alike. LEARN MORE

After all, he’s only about a year old.AdvertisementAdvertisement

While Elijah wasn’t actually awake for the trophy portion of the ceremony on Sunday night, he was seen with his eyes open for a little bit of it. And, above all else, at least he was there. That’s a moment his dad is sure to remember for the rest of his life, even if Elijah can’t.Advertisement

“I don’t know why he’s asleep right now, but I guess it’s not loud enough,” Hartenstein joked before waving at the crowd.

Elijah was spotted completely passed out with his dad, Oklahoma City center Isaiah Harteinstein, as the Thunder accepted their trophy after winning the NBA Finals on Sunday night. Pretty quickly, Elijah stole the show during the ceremony.Elijah Hartenstein missed a major milestone in his dad’s professional career on Sunday night, though it’s hard to blame him.