Jalen Brunson's Message About Knicks Hero Says a Lot

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Reign Amurao | Last updated Dec 18, 2025 10:38 PM ET

The New York Knicks outlasted the Indiana Pacers on Thursday with a 114-113 win. Late in the game, star guard Jalen Brunson took over the game and hit the game-clinching 3-pointer. Brunson led the game with 25 points, seven rebounds and seven assists. Without Karl-Anthony Towns, who was out with left knee soreness, the Knicks star had to take over.

Fortunately for Brunson, he had help from the supporting cast. Mikal Bridges had 22 points and eight rebounds, while OG Anunoby added 16 points. Even bench players took the opportunity to play a vital role in the Knicks' win.

Veteran guard Jordan Clarkson led the second unit with 18 points on 55.6% shooting from deep. But it was sophomore player Tyler Kolek who put on a show with his double-double of 16 points and 11 assists.

New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) guarded by Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard (2)© Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Brunson had a clear message for Kolek after the Knicks' close win. The two-time All-Star expressed his appreciation for the young guard's strong performance.

“I want to thank the Lord for Tyler Kolek. Playing the way he's playing, saving me,” Brunson said. “We found a way to win this one.

JB "I want to thank the Lord for Tyler Kolek. Playing the way he's playing, saving me…Dude's always in gym. Even blackout days; I take pride being the only one & he's right there"
…
Clyde "I see him as an extension of you"

JB "If he went to Nova maybe he'd be better than me" pic.twitter.com/RX6pwbkz6x
— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) December 19, 2025

Knicks broadcaster Mike Breen asked Brunson what difference he's seen from Kolek over the past few weeks. The former Villanova star mentioned that the 24-year-old has put extra time in the gym to prepare himself for big moments.

“Him just staying ready, he works as hard as anyone and this dude is always in the gym. Even blackout days; I take pride being the only and he’s right there with me.”

Kolek has appeared in 21 games this season, averaging 3.6 points on 46.3% shooting. The Knicks' win over the Pacers is his second-straight game of double-digit scoring this year. Against the San Antonio Spurs in the Emirates NBA Cup, he had 14 points on 55.6% off the bench.

Stepping up in the past two games has resulted in back-to-back wins for the Knicks. If Kolek keeps his performance up, he might see a consistent role in the rotation.

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

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