Former New York Knicks guard Jeremy Lin believes the franchise’s championship success comes down to more than talent.
During a recent appearance on The Stephen A. Smith Show, Lin explained why he thinks the Knicks’ culture, sacrifice and collective mindset set them apart from other teams in the modern NBA.
Lin pointed directly to Finals MVP Jalen Brunson as the foundation of New York’s championship identity.
“It’s team and its grit, right? The team starts with [Jalen] Brunson giving up 113 million.”
Lin also highlighted the shared background of several Knicks players, many of whom developed winning habits during their college careers before bringing that experience to the NBA.
“The team starts, you know, in college, them learning how to win, them dealing with pressure, them being clear-minded and focused in the clutch in endgame situations, getting used to that.”
Jeremy Lin on what sets this Knicks team apart from any other in the modern era
“It’s team and its grit, right? The team starts with [Jalen] Brunson giving up 113 million. The team starts, you know, in college, them learning how to win, them dealing with pressure, them being… pic.twitter.com/XrBznRJBdh
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The Knicks’ championship season culminated with a five-game NBA Finals victory over Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs, delivering the franchise’s first title since 1973.
According to Lin, the arrival of head coach Mike Brown also played an important role in shaping the team’s identity.
“Also, a lot of credit to Mike Brown coming in, the atmosphere, the culture, the way they talk about each other – you can just feel it.”
“You can feel they really love each other, they root for each other… They just don’t care about individual stats.”
Jeremy Lin credits Knicks’ selfless depth for championship success
Throughout the postseason, New York consistently received contributions from multiple players beyond its stars. OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart and Jose Alvarado all delivered key performances at various points during the playoff run.
Lin believes that willingness to embrace different roles became one of the defining characteristics of the team.
“And the grit, every time someone needs to step up, somebody does. Whether it’s OG or Mikal or Josh Hart, even Alvarado.”
The former Knicks fan favorite concluded by pointing to New York’s ability to execute in decisive moments.
“They always have somebody that steps up and makes a difference and so really just their ability to create winning plays that’s something it just feels like every time it’s close, the Knicks are going to find a way.”
That formula proved successful throughout the playoffs. Led by Brunson’s leadership and a deep roster committed to winning over individual accolades, the Knicks ended a 53-year championship drought and established themselves as one of the league’s premier teams heading into next season.
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