Overview

• Oklahoma City opens the NBA Finals Friday against the Indiana Pacers with Hartenstein starting at center as the Thunder enter the series as clear title favorites.
• A championship would make Hartenstein only the second German to win an NBA ring after Dirk Nowitzki’s 2011 triumph.
• In his first season under a three-year, $87 million contract, Hartenstein has averaged 9.2 points, 7.9 rebounds and 2.2 assists per playoff game while anchoring OKC’s defense.
• German coach Álex Mumbrú traveled to Oklahoma and praised Hartenstein’s versatility as a rim protector, rebounder and passer, expressing confidence that the Thunder will capture the championship.
• Hartenstein’s decision on joining Germany for the EuroBasket hinges on his physical recovery after the NBA Finals