New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson had a humorous reaction to receiving write-in votes for NYC mayor.
Jalen Brunson is in is fourth season with the New York Knicks and he has certainly made an impact on the 17-7 squad. Brunson is averaging close to a career high in points per game and leads the team in scoring with 28.3 points per game and in assists with 6.3 per game.
He's been an immediate star since he came to New York, earning MVP votes in each of his last three seasons and All-Star selections in his last two. He's been an instrumental piece in the Knicks' recent success as a franchise and he's brought them to at least the conference semifinals in each season that he's been with the team.
Brunson's popularity among Knicks fans and NBA fans across the league is apparent and shown by the fact that his was the fifth-most purchased jersey last season. But, jersey sales and cheers from the crowd aren't the only evidence of Brunson's popularity. He's been so beloved by New York that it's transferred from the basketball court to the ballot.
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) drives to the basket against Boston Celtics guard Jordan Walsh (27) during the first half at the TD Garden. Brian Fluharty-Imagn ImagesBrunson for Mayor?
Brunson received 27 write-votes in the recent New York City mayoral election that was ultimately won by mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani.
While Brunson's platform was built on hooping and flashy passes, it wasn't enough to get him a spot in the mayor's mansion. Still, he was happy to see the love from his city make it to such an official status, even if he had no interest in running in the first place.
"We have a great fanbase - it's funny, it's cool to see, but I'm going to stay in my lane," Brunson said (via SNY_Knicks).
It's clear that Brunson's way to help the city of New York won't be on a political platform, but by bringing the Knicks a championship for the first time since 1973, a massive trophy drought that Brunson and his constituents would be thrilled to see ended.
Chasing Playoffs, Not Offices
The Knicks have made the playoffs every year with Brunson on the squad, but they've still never made it to the Finals, let alone won the whole thing.
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) reacts during the second half against the Milwaukee Bucks at Madison Square Garden. Vincent Carchietta-Imagn ImagesIt will be a tough task this season with the dominant Oklahoma City Thunder taking over the league in the Western Conference, but the Knicks have distinguished themselves as one of the best teams in the Eastern Conference, if nothing else.
As for any future mayoral runs Brunson might go for?
"At this point in my life, no. I would not consider it," Brunson said.