Jalen Brunson back on big New York stage before Knicks' title defense

New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Jalen Brunson back on big New York stage before Knicks' title defense

By Mike J. Asti | Last updated Sep 9, 2026 2:55 PM ET

Even before the start of the 2026-27 NBA season, Jalen Brunson will be back on the New York stage.

Brunson will host the season premiere of Saturday Night Live on Sept. 26. He will be joined by musical guest KATSEYE.

Brunson's appearance will mark more history for the Knicks star point guard. He will be the first NBA player to host the iconic show since LeBron James did so in 2007.

Jalen Brunson has made history throughout his Knicks career

Brunson is no stranger to making history when in the spotlight, having led the Knicks to the franchise's first NBA championship since 1973 in June. Brunson's strong play earned him the NBA Finals MVP.

He scored 45 points in New York's decisive Game 5 win and averaged 21.7 points, 6.1 assists and 3.2 rebounds throughout the entire postseason as the Knicks completed the playoffs with a 16-3 record.

FIRST FOUR OF SEASON 52!!! pic.twitter.com/m8F1Hnf1gS
— Saturday Night Live (@nbcsnl) September 9, 2026

Brunson will be embarking on his fifth season with the Knicks after spending the first four years of his career with the Dallas Mavericks.

Brunson took his game to another level immediately upon his arrival in New York ahead of the 2022-23 season. Brunson holds averages of 26.3 points, 6.8 assist and 3.8 rebounds while playing in 68, 77, 65 and 74 games, respectively.

Brunson will try to enhance his already legendary basketball legacy

With a full basketball resume that also includes winning two national championships at Villanova, Brunson has already built a career worthy of the Hall of Fame. However, that doesn't mean he's not hungry for more and to help the Knicks repeat as champions.

The Knicks title defense will get underway on Oct. 20 when New York raises its banner against the visiting rival Philadelphia 76ers.

Mike J. Asti

Mike Asti is an experienced media personality and journalist with a vast resume and skillset, most notably from time with TribLIVE Radio and WPXI-TV. Asti now serves as the Managing Editor of WV Sports Now, where he leads the coverage of WVU sports. He has also covered the Steelers, Penguins, Pirates and other teams within the Pittsburgh market

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