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Magic Johnson defends Jalen Brunson amid Hammon's comments on size

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 4:33 PM

Last updated Jun 12, 2026

Magic Johnson defends Jalen Brunson amid Hammon's comments on size

Summary

Magic Johnson expressed support for New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson, responding to Becky Hammon's remark suggesting Brunson is 'too small' to lead the team to an NBA title. Hammon's original comments have resurfaced as the Knicks are reportedly leading their NBA Finals matchup against the San Antonio Spurs 3-1. Johnson highlighted Brunson's success and intelligence on the court, asserting that his size does not determine the ability to win. The Knicks could potentially close out the series in San Antonio on Saturday night, posing a challenge to Hammon's earlier statements regarding the team's championship chances.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Magic Johnson disagrees with Becky Hammon about Jalen Brunson's ability.
•Hammon previously said Brunson is 'too small' for the Knicks to win.
•Knicks lead the NBA Finals 3-1 over the San Antonio Spurs.
•Johnson praised Brunson's winning mentality and performance.
•The Knicks could clinch the series in Game 5 on Saturday.

Latest Updates

4:33 PMYahoo Sports — Magic Johnson laughs off Becky Hammon’s Jalen Brunson take

What they're saying

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Unlike Becky Hammon, Magic Johnson does not subscribe to the idea that New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson is too small to lead the team to an NBA title. When talking about Brunson in 2023, Hammon said the Knicks star…
— Yahoo Sports

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