Jalen Brunson Makes Unexpected Admission About His Star Status

Jalen Brunson (Image Credits: Imagn)

Jalen Brunson Makes Unexpected Admission About His Star Status

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Afshan Khan | Last updated May 13, 2026 5:03 PM ET

When it comes to the New York Knicks’ spirited playoff run, all eyes are on Jalen Brunson, who is once again proving to be a game-changer.

The Knicks kicked off the 2026 playoffs by dispatching the Atlanta Hawks in six games and made headlines by sweeping the Philadelphia 76ers 4-0 in the conference semifinals. Now, predictions about their championship chances are making waves in the league.

As the team gears up for the conference finals, a reporter recently probed Brunson about his role as the star of the show.

His surprising response, however, turned some heads: “One, I’m not a star. Two, I want to win.” With an impressive postseason average of 27.4 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game, many would argue otherwise, labeling him as one of the league’s elite.

Jalen Brunson doesn’t view himself as a star-level player

"One, I'm not a star. Two, I want to win."

(Via @sny_knicks ) pic.twitter.com/68JrL0rFks
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) May 13, 2026

Yet, Brunson’s humility shines through, showcasing a refreshing perspective that prioritizes team success over individual achievement.

Stephen A. Smith Weighed In on Brunson’s Odds of Delivering a Knicks Championship

Right now, many will question whether this year will be different or if the team will face another conference finals exit. Recently, Stephen A. Smith weighed in on his show, discussing the potential for Jalen Brunson to lead the Knicks to victory in the finals.

“Better than Walt Clyde Frazier. Better than Bernard King, better than Patrick Ewing, all of it. He’ll go down as the greatest Knick of all-time if he delivers the championship to this city. No doubt about it,” Smith said.

Stephen A. Smith on if Jalen Brunson leads the Knicks to the finals and wins, he’s the greatest Knick of all-time:

“Better than Walt Clyde Frazier. Better than Bernard King, better than Patrick Ewing, all of it. He’ll go down as the greatest Knick of all-time if he delivers the… pic.twitter.com/CjpQiVO6AM
— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) May 11, 2026

Smith believes that if Brunson, who was recently trolled by Kelly Oubre Jr. for his forehead, leads the Knicks to a championship this season, his name will be remembered as the greatest Knick in New York’s history. Only time will tell. For now, the Knicks are enjoying a crucial rest period before their intense conference finals series.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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