Jalen Brunson Explains Why He Rejects the ‘King of New York’ Title

Jalen Brunson has become one of the biggest sports figures in New York after leading the Knicks to their first NBA championship since 1973. Yet despite fans and even city officials calling him the “King of New York,” Brunson has made it clear that he will never use that title for himself.

During an appearance on The Road Trippin’ Show, Brunson was asked about the nickname and explained why he refuses to embrace it.

“I’ve never called myself the King of New York. I will never call myself the King of New York,” Brunson said.

Brunson Thinks the Title Would Make Him Look Self-Centered

For Brunson, the issue isn’t that he dislikes the nickname when other people use it. Instead, he believes calling himself the “King of New York” would come across as arrogant.

He explained that if he walked into an interview and announced himself as the “King of New York,” people would probably view him as self-centered.

That attitude reflects the humility Brunson has maintained despite becoming the face of the Knicks and one of the most recognizable athletes in the city.

His Family and Friends Keep Him Grounded

Brunson also credited the people closest to him for helping him remain the same person despite his growing fame.

The Knicks star said he still surrounds himself with many of the same friends he has known since high school and college. He also gave significant credit to his parents for helping him stay grounded.

“I just find a way to kind of be the same because of the people around me,” Brunson explained, adding that his parents deserve major credit for keeping him humble.

New York Has Already Crowned Him

Ironically, Brunson doesn’t need to give himself the title because New York has already done it for him.

After leading the Knicks to their historic championship, the 2026 NBA Finals MVP received the Keys to the City. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has also publicly referred to Brunson as the city’s “king.”

Brunson’s case for the nickname became even stronger after a spectacular 2025-26 season. He averaged 26.0 points and 6.8 assists during the regular season before raising his production to 28.4 points and 6.1 assists during the playoffs. He ultimately won Finals MVP as the Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 4-1 in the NBA Finals.

Brunson Would Rather Let His Game Speak

Despite all the attention, Brunson appears more interested in maintaining his approach than embracing celebrity status.

His refusal to call himself the “King of New York” fits the personality that has helped make him so popular with Knicks fans. While the city may continue to crown him, Brunson would rather earn respect through his performances than proclaim himself the best.

For now, New York can call him whatever it wants. Brunson just isn’t going to crown himself.