Since crossing over from the Dallas Mavericks to the New York Knicks, Jalen Brunson has become a star in New York as he has played a major role in the Knicks being present in the NBA playoffs in his first two seasons. As a result, it has led tennis star Frances Tiafoe to compare him to another New York great, Jay Z.
Jalen Brunson has had a lot of impressive performances which have exceeded expectations and earned him a level of popularity rivaling that of Jay-Z. His success on the court, which includes him averaging 32.4 points and 7.5 assists per game in the playoffs, has made him a beloved figure in the city of New York.
It’s funny. I was actually trying to wear a Mikal Bridges [jersey] because he was coming to the match today and he texted me that he was coming to the match, but I’m just not a morning person, so I put it on and then when I took it off to go practice, I was, like, God, Jalen. But yeah, Brunson, he’s the man here. He’s damn near bigger than Jay-Z.
Frances Tiafoe said ahead of his US Open game against Alexander Shevchenko
Furthermore, Brunson showed commitment to the team when he signed a new contract for $113 million less than he could have earned. This decision has now allowed the Knicks to keep their core players together and avoid a hefty tax penalty.
The new NBA season is set to begin, with the Knicks facing a tough away game against the defending champions, the Boston Celtics in their opening fixture. And with Brunson leading the team, they have high hopes for a successful season.
Frances Tiafoe celebrates US Open win with Mikal Bridges’ signature move
It was a great outing for Frances Tiafoe in his second-round win at the US Open, and he marked it by using Mikal Bridges’ signature three-point celebration. The New York Knicks new signing was in attendance to congratulate Tiafoe after his victory over Alexander Shevchenko, who had retired in the third set.
Tiafoe at the end of the game said he was pleased with his performance, and that he played well despite his win being as a result of his opponent’s retirement. The American tennis player will face Ben Shelton in the third round of the competition.
Bridges had joined the Knicks in a blockbuster trade, and he is expected to be a key player for the team next season. He will be reunited with his former Villanova teammates, including Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, and Josh Hart, as the Knicks hope for a top spot in the Eastern Conference.
