The New York Knicks are still celebrating a historic championship, but Rick Brunson is not ready to move Jalen Brunson past Patrick Ewing in the franchise’s all-time debate.
The Knicks superstar point guard led New York to the 2026 NBA title and captured NBA Finals MVP honors after a dominant series vs. the San Antonio Spurs. His 45-point performance in the title-clinching Game 5 win immediately sparked conversation about where he belongs among the greatest players in franchise history.
Rick has kept the same stance throughout the celebration. The Knicks assistant coach and veteran guard still believes Ewing holds the top spot despite his son delivering the franchise’s first championship in 53 years.
The discussion gained fresh attention Thursday after NBA Base shared a clip on X, formerly Twitter, from Wednesday’s CBS Mornings appearance, during which the older Brunson explained why he still believes Ewing’s longevity and sustained excellence still separate him from every other player in franchise history.
“Patrick Ewing is the greatest right now… Pat was the hardest working guy we had and he was the best player. Pat did it for 15 years in New York, Jalen did it for four… Another seven years you can revisit that question, but as of today, the big fella is my favorite.”
Rick Brunson on why Patrick Ewing is still the greatest Nick ever over Jalen Brunson:
"Patrick Ewing is the greatest right now… Pat was the hardest working guy we had and he was the best player. Pat did it for 15 years in New York, Jalen did it for four… Another seven years… pic.twitter.com/yVDQOBAD5D
— NBA Base (@TheNBABase) June 17, 2026
Rick’s perspective carries weight because he played alongside Ewing during New York’s late-1990s championship pursuits. His comments are rooted in firsthand experience rather than simple nostalgia.
The coach also appears focused on keeping his son motivated. Rather than treating one championship as the finish line, Rick continues challenging his son to build a longer legacy in one of basketball’s most demanding markets.
For now, the Knicks’ all-time debate remains open. The 29-year-old guard delivered the franchise’s greatest modern achievement, but his father believes Patrick Ewing’s 15 years of elite production and sustained excellence still set the standard in the Big Apple.
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