NBA star Lonzo Ball declares Jalen Brunson 'the best Knick to do it' amid New York's NBA Finals run

Lonzo Ball has declared Jalen Brunson the greatest player in New York Knicks history, lauding the guard after a pivotal performance in the NBA Finals.

The veteran guard, who most recently suited up for the Cleveland Cavaliers, took to social media to sing Brunson’s praises following the Knicks' 105-95 comeback victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 1 of the championship series. "The best Knick to do it like ever," Ball posted on X.

Brunson's 30-point outing was instrumental in New York's success, pushing the franchise to the NBA Finals for the first time in over two decades. The Knicks currently stand just three victories away from clinching their first title in more than 50 years.

The duo previously crossed paths on Christmas Day at Madison Square Garden, where Brunson led the Knicks in scoring during a 126-124 triumph over the Cavaliers. During that earlier matchup, Ball played 14 minutes off the bench, recording a single rebound.

Off the court, the Finals Game 1 was not without its turbulence. Brunson briefly exited to the locker room after suffering an injury scare but ultimately returned to the floor. In the final minute of the game, the star guard appeared frustrated with unidentified courtside spectators during teammate OG Anunoby’s free throw attempts. The NBA has since launched an investigation into the incident, ESPN reported Thursday, citing sources.

The Knicks boast a storied franchise history, with legendary players such as Willis Reed, Patrick Ewing, Walt Frazier, and Charles Oakley often cited among the greatest. Should Brunson help bring the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy back to 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, his standing among those hall of famers will undoubtedly be secured. As the series shifts to San Antonio for Game 2 on Friday night, followed by Game 3 in New York next week, all eyes remain on the Knicks’ standout guard.