Jalen Brunson Fulfilled the Knicks’ Dream and Earned His Place Among New York’s Greats
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- Jalen Brunson led the New York Knicks to their first NBA championship in 53 years, delivering a 45-point performance in the Finals-clinching game and earning NBA Finals MVP honors.
- Brunson became the fourth player in history, alongside Bob Pettit, Michael Jordan, and Giannis Antetokounmpo, to score 45 or more points in a Finals closeout game.
- Despite initial skepticism over his $104 million contract, Brunson has proven his value by averaging 24 points in his first Knicks season, becoming an All-Star, and earning All-NBA honors for three consecutive years.
- Knicks coach Mike Brown and teammates praise Brunson’s methodical shot creation, footwork, and composure, highlighting his evolution into a versatile scorer who controls the game with patience.
- Brunson credits hard work and resilience, inspired by his father’s NBA journey, for his success, remaining humble and focused despite entering the conversation as one of the greatest Knicks and small guards in NBA history.