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Jalen Brunson reflects on his NBA journey ahead of Finals matchup

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 3, 2026, 5:55 AM

Last updated Jun 3, 2026

Jalen Brunson reflects on his NBA journey ahead of Finals matchup

Summary

Jalen Brunson, playing for the New York Knicks, discussed his early career struggles playing behind Luka Doncic in Dallas. Brunson, who was a standout at Villanova, averaged 18.9 points in his final college season but faced a reduced role in the NBA, leading to feelings of self-doubt. Despite past challenges and ongoing doubts about his ability, he has established himself as a key player with the Knicks. Brunson emphasizes the importance of hard work as the Knicks prepare to face the San Antonio Spurs in the 2026 NBA Finals starting Wednesday.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Brunson led Villanova to two NCAA championships before joining the NBA.
•He averaged 9.3 points in his rookie year with the Dallas Mavericks.
•Brunson acknowledged feelings of imposter syndrome during his early career.
•He now plays a leading role for the Knicks in the 2026 NBA Finals.
•The Knicks face the San Antonio Spurs starting Wednesday.

Latest Updates

5:55 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Made Me Kind of Question Myself’ – Jalen Brunson Gets Honest About Playing Behind Luka Doncic’s Shadow

What they're saying

"
Jalen Brunson was a high-profile guard in college, leading the Villanova Wildcats to two NCAA championships in his three years there. Things changed dramatically when he decided to turn professional. Brunson was selected 33rd overall in the 2018 NBA Draft, a class widely regarded as one of the strongest in recent years. The worst part, [...]
— Yahoo Sports

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