Dirk Nowitzki’s proud moment with Jalen Brunson after winning the NBA Cup

ByNBAUSA



Dirk Nowitzki he didn’t need boxing to explain how he felt Jalen Brunson. After Brunson torched the Orlando Magic for 40 points and pushed New York Knicks in NBA Cup finally, Nowitzki joined the postgame conversation about the NBA on Prime and delivered a message that carried real weight. The Dallas Mavericks legend spoke directly to his former teammate, offering praise that was both personal and well-deserved.

“When you went to New York, I wasn’t sure,” Nowitzki said. “I’m super proud of you. I’ve seen how hard you work, how much it means to you, how much time you put in when no one is looking… I’m so happy you’re leading this franchise.”

That kind of support doesn’t come lightly, especially from someone who has spent two decades defining what leadership looks like in Dallas.

Brunson’s performance backed that up. He finished with a record 40 points as he controlled the game late, delivering shot after shot whenever Orlando made a push. The Knicks leaned on him down the stretch, and he responded with composure, patience and a few cold-blooded buckets that sealed the outcome.

The moment resonated because of where Brunson started. When he left Dallas for New York, many people wondered if he could carry the franchise. He wasn’t meant to be the face of anything. He was supposed to be solid, reliable, not domineering.

Now it does just that. Brunson became a motor Knicks, setting the tone every night and leading with a calm confidence that mirrors some of the greats he once played with.

Nowitzki saw the work before the spotlight came on. Watching Brunson thrive on this stage clearly meant something deeper than winning.





2025-12-14 03:03:00

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