Jalen Brunson never mentioned Victor Wembanyama by name, but his comments about respect after the New York Knicks’ championship-clinching victory have taken on added significance given the criticism directed at the San Antonio Spurs.
The Knicks ended a 53-year wait for an NBA title by defeating the Spurs 94-90 in Game 5 of the Finals, securing a 4-1 series victory and delivering New York its first championship since 1973.
As teammates celebrated on the court following the final buzzer, Brunson’s attention immediately turned elsewhere. Before fully embracing the moment, the Finals MVP walked over to Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson to acknowledge the effort of the team New York had just defeated.
Brunson reveals why he sought out Mitch Johnson before celebrating
Appearing on CBS Mornings alongside his father, Knicks assistant coach Rick Brunson, the All-Star guard explained the thinking behind a moment that quickly caught the attention of fans.
“I hugged and said what’s up to Coach Johnson from the Spurs first, just to show respect. It was just kind of instinct, like how I was raised. I think win or loss, you show respect regardless of the outcome, and I’ve got a lot of respect for them over there.”
Rather than focusing on his own achievement, Brunson made it clear that acknowledging his opponent felt like the natural thing to do.
The comments also reinforced the reputation he has built throughout his career as one of the league’s most respected leaders.
The timing of Brunson’s remarks is notable because they come after scrutiny surrounding San Antonio’s actions following the final buzzer.
Brunson’s comments arrive amid criticism of the Spurs’ postgame reaction
Several observers pointed out that Victor Wembanyama and many of his teammates headed to the locker room shortly after the loss, while veteran center Luke Kornet was reported to be among the few Spurs players who remained on the floor to congratulate the Knicks.
The situation became an even bigger talking point when Draymond Green publicly criticized San Antonio’s response, arguing that New York’s accomplishment deserved greater acknowledgement from the defeated side.
Brunson never directly referenced Wembanyama or the criticism aimed at the Spurs. However, his belief that respect should be shown “win or loss” inevitably stands out against the backdrop of that debate.
After leading the Knicks to one of the most important victories in franchise history, Brunson’s first instinct was not to celebrate himself.
Instead, it was to recognize the opponent standing across from him, a gesture that many viewed as a reflection of the standards he expects from himself regardless of the occasion.
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