Knicks Coach Recalls Being Astounded by Jalen Brunson During Warriors Days After 47-Point MSG Masterclass

Jalen Brunson led the New York Knicks to an impressive 132-125 win over the Miami Heat at Madison Square Garden on Sunday. Brunson poured in 47 points, earning praise from Mike Brown, who recalled being in awe of the guard during his time with the Golden State Warriors.

The Knicks coach reflected on the moment during his postgame interview.

“When he was in Dallas and he was a young fella, I knew he had a chance,” Brown said. “We (Warriors) played them in the playoffs and at his size, and even as a young guy, we had some pretty good wing defenders. We put Draymond (Green) on him.”

Continuing to reflect on those Western Conference matchups, Brown revealed Brunson was a “terror” even back then.

“At that time, I didn’t know if there were many power forwards that guarded him,” Brown continued. “I was the defensive coordinator, so he was a terror back then. We ran double teams at him, so I knew he was a really good player.”

Brown went on to heap further praise on Brunson, saying he has enjoyed the opportunity to coach him with the Knicks.

“Obviously, being able to coach him, plus he’s older now, you get to see all the other stuff,” Brown explained. “His work ethic, how competitive he is, confidence all that other stuff, but back then he was a problem.

Jalen Brunson has evolved into a leader in the Knicks dressing room and has led the team from the front this season, averaging 28.4 ppg and 6.5 apg.

That leadership was on full display against the Miami Heat, as Brunson put on a master class for 47 points on 15-of-26 shooting, helping the Knicks close the gap on the Detroit Pistons to two games.

Knicks coach makes MVP case for Jalen Brunson after 47-point performance

Jalen Brunson poured in a season-high 47 points on Sunday to lead the Knicks back into the win column. His standout performance drew praise from coach Mike Brown, who also put Brunson’s name forward in the MVP conversation.

“For him to score 47, especially on 15-for-26 shooting, 6-for-13 from three-point range, and 11-for-11 at the free-throw line while dishing out eight assists. That’s what he’s capable of doing, and that’s what MVPs are supposed to do,” Brown said (Timestamp: 2:34).

With Brunson continuing to be one of the most consistent performers this season, regular displays like this should see him climb the MVP rankings.