Knicks' Jalen Brunson Shrugs Off CJ McCollum's 'Broadway' Jab After Groin Kick

Brunson responds calmly to McCollum's criticism of his reaction to a controversial play in Game 1.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 7:36pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game, with the players and court fragmented into sharp, overlapping shapes and planes in a vibrant color palette, capturing the intensity and competitiveness of the playoff matchup.The heated exchange between Knicks guard Jalen Brunson and Hawks guard CJ McCollum adds an extra layer of drama to their playoff series.NYC Today

Atlanta Hawks guard CJ McCollum criticized Knicks guard Jalen Brunson for 'acting' and 'thinking he was at a Broadway show' after McCollum was assessed a technical foul for kicking Brunson in the groin during Game 1 of their playoff series. However, Brunson brushed off McCollum's comments, telling reporters 'I have no reaction' when asked about the incident.

Why it matters

The technical foul call on McCollum came at a pivotal point in the game, as the Knicks went on to pull away and win Game 1. The back-and-forth between the two players adds some extra drama and intrigue to the series as it heads to Game 2.

The details

McCollum appeared to make contact with Brunson's groin area while taking a jumper, leading to the technical foul call. McCollum said he 'looks forward to getting his $2,500 back' and believed the call would be rescinded. Brunson scored a game-high 28 points in the Knicks' 113-101 win, while McCollum had 26 points for the Hawks.

  • The technical foul call came early in the third quarter of Game 1 on Saturday, April 19, 2026.
  • Game 2 between the Knicks and Hawks is scheduled for Monday, April 21, 2026.

The players

Jalen Brunson

The starting point guard for the New York Knicks, who scored a game-high 28 points in Game 1.

CJ McCollum

The starting guard for the Atlanta Hawks, who was assessed a technical foul for kicking Brunson in the groin during Game 1.

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What they’re saying

“I shot a jumper and Jalen thought we were at a Broadway show”

— CJ McCollum, Atlanta Hawks Guard

“I have no reaction”

— Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks Guard

What’s next

The Knicks and Hawks will face off in Game 2 on Monday, April 21, 2026, as the series continues.

The takeaway

This incident between Brunson and McCollum adds some extra drama and intrigue to the Knicks-Hawks playoff series, with the two players exchanging words after a controversial play in Game 1. However, Brunson took the high road in his response, choosing not to engage with McCollum's criticism.