In a stunning resurgence that harkens back to their golden era, the New York Knicks have set the NBA world alight, thanks largely to the remarkable contributions of Jalen Brunson. The Knicks' resurgence, not seen in the past quarter-century, has fans dreaming of championships once more.
Since Brunson's arrival, the Knicks have reached the Eastern Conference semifinals for two consecutive seasons, a feat untouched since 2013. More impressively, they have won playoff series back-to-back—the first time since their dominant run from 1992 to 2000. This achievement has brought a wave of excitement and optimism to Madison Square Garden.
Brunson's story is one of sacrifice and leadership. By giving the Knicks a $113 million discount in potential salary, he has allowed the team the financial flexibility necessary to build a winning roster around him. Reflecting on his decision, Brunson said, "Obviously I'm well off, myself and my family, we're obviously well off, so that's first and foremost. But I want to win. I want to win here." His commitment was further underscored when the Knicks made him the team captain.
In a ceremonial event held at Madison Square Garden to celebrate Brunson's impact, former Knicks stars, including Hall of Famer Patrick Ewing and actor Ben Stiller, were in attendance. Ewing narrated a heartfelt video tribute that highlighted a young Brunson with Ewing, signifying the full-circle moment for the current Knicks star. "People just want to be around you, Jalen. You're a born leader," Ewing remarked, underscoring Brunson's influence both on and off the court.
Brunson’s basketball lineage runs deep, with his father, Rick Brunson, having played for the Knicks during Jalen’s childhood. This deep-rooted connection with the franchise has manifested in Brunson’s dedication to the team. Jalen Brunson recently reaffirmed his commitment by signing a four-year contract extension worth approximately $156.5 million. Yet, in true team-first fashion, he eschewed the chance to become a free agent, a path that could have netted him a five-year, $269 million deal. Reflecting on his choices, Brunson said, "I think about every decision that I make and I'm completely comfortable with what I've done."
Brunson's on-court performance matches his off-court leadership. Leading last season's team with 28.7 points per game, which ranked fourth in the NBA, he earned his first All-Star selection and finished fifth in MVP voting. His postseason prowess was equally remarkable, becoming the first player since Michael Jordan to record four straight playoff games of 40 or more points. However, his season ended prematurely due to a broken left hand during the second half of their Game 7 loss to the Indiana Pacers in the second round.
In the offseason, the Knicks bolstered their roster by signing OG Anunoby to a five-year deal worth more than $210 million, adding further firepower as they aim for even greater success. The team is also considering an extension for Julius Randle, highlighting their commitment to building a contending team around Brunson.
Brunson's inspiration comes from legends who epitomize the team-first mentality. He has looked up to figures like Derek Jeter and Tom Brady, athletes known for their leadership and focus on winning. "Winning trumps everything that I do individually," Brunson has said. This ethos drives his every move and decision, reinforcing his role as the true engine of the Knicks' resurgence.
As fans look forward to the coming seasons, Brunson's words resonate deeply: "This is literally just the beginning." He is well aware that actions speak louder than words, articulating, "People can say they want to do a lot of things, but it's all about their actions. Obviously, this is no guarantee that we win a championship, right? This is just me wanting to do my part to help this team try and get one. So it's all about the journey and I'm happy to be a part of it."
With a leader like Brunson at the helm, the Knicks are no longer a team of the past—they are built for the future, ready to make their mark once again. The journey has just begun, and the basketball world will be watching closely.