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Jalen Brunson receives Vanessa Bryant's endorsement after Knicks' championship win

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 11:00 AM

Last updated Jun 16, 2026

Jalen Brunson receives Vanessa Bryant's endorsement after Knicks' championship win

Summary

Jalen Brunson's MVP performance in the 2026 NBA Finals has drawn comparisons to Kobe Bryant. Following the Knicks' victory over the San Antonio Spurs, Vanessa Bryant publicly endorsed Brunson, sharing a photo with the caption "Job's finished," a phrase linked to her late husband. Brunson led the Knicks to their first title since 1973 and averaged 32.6 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 4.6 assists in the Finals. Throughout the series, he drew on Bryant's influence, wearing various models from Bryant's signature sneaker line. The Knicks' championship brings an end to a 53-year championship drought for the franchise.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Jalen Brunson averaged 32.6 points in the Finals.
•Vanessa Bryant endorsed Brunson after the Knicks' championship win.
•Knicks secured their first title since 1973.
•Brunson demonstrated a connection to Kobe Bryant throughout the Finals.
•The Knicks ended a 53-year championship drought.

Latest Updates

11:00 AMYahoo Sports — Knicks Star Jalen Brunson Gets 2-Word Co-Sign From Vanessa Bryant Amid Comparisons to Lakers Icon Kobe Bryant

What they're saying

"
Jalen Brunson’s MVP performance in the 2026 NBA Finals prompted lofty comparisons, with ESPN’s Alan Hahn proclaiming the New York Knicks star the league’s “closest thing to Kobe Bryant. ” Many were outraged, arguing that Bryant’s legacy is incomparable.
— Yahoo Sports

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Los Angeles Lakers New York Knicks San Antonio Spurs NBA Basketball