The New York Knicks have reached the NBA Finals for the first time in 27 years, but one WNBA coach remains unimpressed by Jalen Brunson's credentials. Brunson, 29, was instrumental in the Knicks' Eastern Conference Finals victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers, securing a 4-0 sweep. The former Villanova standout earned Eastern Conference Finals MVP honors after averaging 25.5 points and 7.8 assists per game, shooting 48.7 percent from the field in the series.
Hammon's Persistent Doubts
Despite these achievements, Las Vegas Aces head coach Becky Hammon has reiterated her skepticism about Brunson. Speaking on Tuesday, Hammon stated, "I speak from experience. Allen Iverson got MVP, and he lost in the finals. I think the two best teams are probably in the West, but I'm up for being proven wrong." She added, "I think Jalen Brunson's a hell of a player. I'm speaking historically on the NBA with what I said. I don't know why everybody's so stuck on that. I said it two years ago. If he proves me wrong, he proves me wrong."
Hammon's initial criticism in December 2023 included remarks that the Knicks lacked "a 1A dude" to compete at the highest level. Since then, the Knicks have made three playoff appearances, two Eastern Conference Finals, and now the NBA Finals under Brunson's leadership.
Finals Preview and Trump's Interest
After sweeping the Cavaliers, the Knicks will face either the San Antonio Spurs or the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Finals. President Donald Trump has confirmed plans to attend a game, following an invitation from Knicks owner Jim Dolan. Trump praised the team, saying, "They're great, and Jim Dolan is a great guy. He's having a good year. Boy, what a team. They win all their games. They have some great players. I think I'll be going to one of the games." Trump noted the Knicks' long struggle, adding, "They really suffered for years, they're doing right now."
