sports

'He is him': indomitable Jalen Brunson quiets doubters as Knicks end 53-year wait

The Knicks ended a decades-long title drought behind a 45-point explosion from Brunson, whose teammates say his influence extends far beyond the box score

'He is him': indomitable Jalen Brunson quiets doubters as Knicks end 53-year wait

TL;DR

  • Jalen Brunson scored 45 points to lead the New York Knicks to their first NBA championship in 53 years.
  • Brunson earned NBA Finals MVP, becoming one of the few players 6'3" or shorter to achieve this feat.
  • Teammates and coach Mike Brown praised Brunson's leadership, work ethic, and ability to carry the team.
  • Brunson's perspective on pressure was shaped by his father's career, making him unafraid to fail.
  • Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart became the first teammates in basketball history to win both an NCAA and an NBA title together.