Coach Brown Advocates for MVP Consideration
Knicks coach Mike Brown advocated for Brunson to be seriously considered among the elite players in the league.
"I've said it, and I hope you guys will listen to me, but he's a top-three MVP candidate," said Brown.
Brown dismissed critics who questioned Brunson's physical stature. "People say he's too small.
People say he's a 1B or a 2B or whatever. He is a freaking 1A.
He is an MVP candidate," said Brown.
Brown also credited Brunson's parents for establishing his competitive approach.
"I've got to give his mom credit, and I hate to say this but I'm going to give his dad credit, too.
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He understands what winning is about," said Brown.
Brunson reflected on his family history when asked about the pressures of being the franchise face. "No pressure whatsoever," said Brunson.
"My dad being on eight or nine unguaranteed contracts throughout his career and not knowing when you're going to get cut, while your family is on the east coast and you are wherever you are in the country, that's pressure."
Brunson noted that observing his father's career journey directly influenced his own mental approach. "I'm just never afraid to fail," said Brunson.
Brunson celebrated the title alongside guard Mikal Bridges, who won college national championships with him at Villanova University in 2016 and 2018.
"I've known him for so long," said Bridges.
"I know how much he works, how good of a person he is, how good of a basketball player he is.
