Jalen Brunson is the star point guard that New York Knicks fans spent years (emphasis on years) manifesting. The “overpaid” critiques didn’t hold much weight when he signed with the Knicks in 2022, and it didn’t take long for him to prove that he was vastly underpaid in his first season in New York. Brunson reached a different level in his second season, posting career-highs in points and assists per game. Playing in New York isn’t easy but Brunson makes it look that way. He truly was born to play for the Knicks.
- Jordanna Clark
FanSided Editor
Best fan moment of the year
Shortly after Jalen Brunson learned he made his first All-Star team, the Knicks played against the Pacers. He scored 40 points in the team’s ninth-straight win and was serenaded by the MSG crowd afterward. Brunson got emotional in a postgame interview when he was asked about the journey that led him to be named an All-Star and hearing fans chant MVP. It was a memorable night for fans and their beloved leader.
What emotion defined this fandom this year?
Joy. Knicks fans watched as Jalen Brunson not only became an All-Star but made his first All-NBA team. He propelled himself into the MVP conversation as he led New York to the No. 2 seed, even with an injury-riddled roster. Watching him perform his craft was the perfect escape from the outside world.