Jalen Brunson Discusses Knicks’ Historic Comeback in NBA Finals

New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson remains composed amid a thrilling Game 4 of the NBA Finals, where the Knicks staged the largest comeback in championship history. Despite holding a 3-1 series lead over the San Antonio Spurs and being on the brink of winning the franchise’s first NBA title since 1973, Brunson insists the team is approaching the series as if it’s tied ‘0-0.’

Brunson emphasized the importance of team accountability. ‘As a team, you have to hold each other accountable. Whatever’s being said, positive or negative, you can’t really think about or worry too much,’ he told NBC News, highlighting the focus needed as the possibility of victory looms closer.

Addressing fans anticipating a win, Brunson noted, ‘The fans are going to be the fans, but for us, we got to do our jobs.’

After an emotional Game 4 that saw the Knicks rally from a 29-point deficit to claim a 107-106 win, Brunson remains unwavering in his focus. During the third quarter, he faced off against Victor Wembanyama of the Spurs, showcasing determination. Brunson notched 36 points in this pivotal game, including critical fourth-quarter shots, marking his best performance in the Finals thus far.

The Knicks have managed to come back twice this postseason when down by 20 or more points in the fourth quarter. ‘First of all, it’s a position that we really don’t want to be in, but we just keep fighting,’ stated Brunson, regarding the team’s ability to mount significant comebacks. ‘We’re going to continue giving it everything we got. Regardless, even if we don’t win Game 4, I feel like the habits that got us back into the game could carry over into Game 5.’

Brunson spoke about the mentality required, saying, ‘It’s all about the habits we create and what we do in situations; it starts with just the mentality of giving it all, knowing you can be down 29 and claw all the way back.’

Although Brunson’s efficiency has not been at its peak during the Finals, averaging 29.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game, shooting 39.6% due to a tough Spurs defense, his Game 4 efforts have positioned the Knicks for a potential championship win.

When questioned about the support of Knicks fans if Game 4 serves as the last game at Madison Square Garden for the season, Brunson expressed, ‘I love our fans, and they mean the world to me and this organization. They deserve it, but I think most importantly, I just got to do what I’ve done and focus on what I have to do, and then I’ll answer your question later.’