Jalen Brunson Built for New York's Bright Lights

Knicks' All-Star point guard reflects on leadership, fatherhood, and MSG's electric atmosphere

Feb. 3, 2026 at 4:31pm

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In a Boardroom Cover Story, Jalen Brunson discusses navigating the 'dog days' of the NBA season, the unique challenges and rewards of playing for the New York Knicks, and his evolution from underdog to franchise cornerstone. The 25-year-old All-Star reflects on his path to the league, the influence of his father, and balancing the demands of stardom with the joys of fatherhood.

Why it matters

As the Knicks fight through injuries and inconsistency, Brunson's unwavering belief in the process and connection to the city's passionate fanbase could be exactly what the team needs to take the next step. Brunson's story also highlights the changing landscape of NBA stardom, where off-court opportunities are now available to players in any market, but the unique energy of Madison Square Garden remains unmatched.

The details

Brunson, who was drafted 33rd overall in 2018, has quickly become the face of the Knicks franchise. After spending his first three NBA seasons with the Dallas Mavericks, Brunson signed with the Knicks in 2022, taking less money to build something bigger than himself in New York. As he enters Year 3 with the team, Brunson is navigating the delicate balance of evolving from underdog to franchise cornerstone while maintaining the hunger that got him here.

  • Brunson was drafted 33rd overall in the 2018 NBA Draft.
  • Brunson signed with the New York Knicks in the summer of 2022.
  • Brunson is currently in his third season with the Knicks.

The players

Jalen Brunson

The 25-year-old All-Star point guard for the New York Knicks, known for his leadership, work ethic, and connection to the city's passionate fanbase.

Luka Dončić

The superstar point guard for the Dallas Mavericks, with whom Brunson played his first three NBA seasons.

Kobe Bryant

The late NBA legend, whose brand Brunson has become the first men's basketball player to be signed to.

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What they’re saying

“Everything that is going wrong is controllable. We had great stretches; we were winning. I think a lot of things may have been obviously masked because we won games, but we're still growing as a team.”

— Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks All-Star Point Guard

“There's no better place to do anything, not just play basketball, to do anything, perform anything that goes on in that arena.”

— Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks All-Star Point Guard

What’s next

Brunson and the Knicks will look to build momentum and climb the Eastern Conference standings as the NBA season progresses. The team's performance and Brunson's continued growth as a leader will be closely watched by the passionate New York fanbase.

The takeaway

Jalen Brunson's journey from second-round pick to Knicks franchise cornerstone exemplifies his unwavering work ethic and belief in the process. As he navigates the demands of stardom and fatherhood, Brunson's connection to New York's unique basketball culture could be the key to unlocking the team's full potential.