NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 20: Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks reacts after making a three-point shot during the second half against the Toronto Raptors at Madison Square Garden on January 20, 2024 in New York City. The Knicks won 126-120. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
Jalen Brunson was a former second-round pick, selected 33rd overall by the Dallas Mavericks in 2018. He entered the league with questions about his size and athleticism, but what scouts underestimated was his leadership, basketball IQ and ability to find his shot and perform in big moments.
The Mavericks had both Luka Dončić and Brunson in the same draft class, which is remarkable. Brunson has been on full display throughout the 2026 postseason.
The Knicks have relied on Brunson’s scoring and playmaking throughout their playoff run, but what stood out in Game 1 of the NBA Finals last Wednesday was the black Hyperice Venom 2 wrap he wore.
The wrap is a recovery tool sold on Amazon for $279. In that game, Brunson was injured, but returned to make big shots down the stretch as the Knicks beat the Spurs in San Antonio. The device is marketed to relieve lower back pain and has received rave reviews from Amazon customers.
It may have helped his performance down the stretch, as he was able to knock down big shots. Although Spurs guard Stephon Castle has done a good job guarding Brunson this series, Brunson still finds his spots—he just has to convert.
For years, the Knicks searched for a superstar capable of returning the franchise to championship contention. With Brunson, they found exactly that—a leader, a scorer and a player who continues to elevate New York on basketball’s biggest stage.
Game 3 is set for tonight, and Brunson will be in the spotlight as the Knicks look to take control of the series.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert sent a memo to teams Friday afternoon addressing the league's ongoing…
The race for Rodri has developed into one of the most intriguing transfer battles of…
Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins and star pass rusher Maxx Crosby were held out…
Coming off a disappointing 2–10 campaign in 2024, the Florida State Seminoles entered 2025 expecting…
Roger Craig turned what should have been a purely celebratory night into a moment of…
Royce White, the former NBA first-round pick now running for U.S. Senate in Minnesota, announced…