In a remarkable display of team-first mentality, Jalen Brunson has agreed to a four-year, $156.5 million contract extension with the New York Knicks, turning down a potential $269 million deal he could have signed next year. This decision, which leaves over $100 million on the table, is not only a testament to Brunson’s commitment to the Knicks but also one of the most significant pay cuts in NBA history.
Brunson’s new deal, which begins in the 2025-26 season, includes a fourth-year player option and will cost him $37.1 million over the next three years. By opting for this extension now, Brunson has effectively sacrificed $113 million in guaranteed money. This move is almost unprecedented in the NBA, where players typically seek to maximize their earnings, especially during their prime years.
The rationale behind Brunson’s decision is clear: to provide the Knicks with the financial flexibility needed to build a championship-caliber roster. By taking a significant pay cut, Brunson has allowed the Knicks to save $37.1 million in future cap space. This financial maneuvering is crucial for a team that has been on the cusp of greatness but needs additional pieces to become a true contender.
Brunson’s selflessness is reminiscent of other notable pay cuts in NBA history, such as Dirk Nowitzki’s $20 million reduction in 2017 to help the Dallas Mavericks. However, Brunson’s sacrifice stands out due to the sheer amount of money involved and the potential impact on the Knicks’ future.
Since joining the Knicks in 2022, Brunson has been instrumental in transforming the team into a top contender in the Eastern Conference. His leadership and on-court performance have made New York an attractive destination for star players once again. By securing Brunson’s services at a more team-friendly rate, the Knicks can now focus on adding the necessary talent to complement their star point guard.
Brunson’s decision to prioritize team success over personal gain is a rare and commendable act in professional sports. It not only highlights his character but also sets a powerful example for other players. As the Knicks look to build on their recent successes, Brunson’s sacrifice will undoubtedly be remembered as a pivotal moment in the franchise’s history.
This historic pay cut obviously was the talk of town in the NBA world with NBA Twitter raving about Brunson and his mentality.
me, when my daughter asks me why her name is “Jalen Brunson” pic.twitter.com/dSIZ17Jucf
— Yusuke Urameshi (@brentisoccer13) May 15, 2024
Jalen Brunson: pic.twitter.com/BGV3yYYiyN
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) July 13, 2024
All of NYC to Jalen Brunson: pic.twitter.com/vYYHTksRrR
— Jeff Eisenband (@JeffEisenband) July 12, 2024
Jalen Brunson the next time he pulls up to the Garden pic.twitter.com/bS7x9nJQcs
— Knickel & Diming (@Knickel_Diming) July 12, 2024
I’m absolutely not kidding – Jalen Brunson is the best superstar maybe in sports history. Leaving 100+ mil on the table for your franchise is UNPRECEDENTED. He will be beloved as a king for the rest of time in this city. 113M bought him NYC immortality, what a fucking LEGEND https://t.co/OAcxejBOe9
— KFC (@KFCBarstool) July 12, 2024
JALEN BRUNSON JUST PUT HIS NUMBER IN THE MSG RAFTERSpic.twitter.com/DJsRZKP3eD
— KnicksMuse (@KnicksMuse) July 12, 2024
I love you, Jalen Brunson https://t.co/RtB4Io1Rdt pic.twitter.com/Eg21IHXwz5
— Omar (@KingBacca22x) July 12, 2024
Every single brand in New York better throw him the damn bag. Chase, Nike, i need to shop at Jalen Brunson Nissan Dealership tomorrow. https://t.co/XcMcexBqIK
— Kazeem Famuyide (@Kazeem) July 12, 2024
THERE IS NOT ENOUGH HONEY FOR YOU JALEN BRUNSON pic.twitter.com/mFLFIEKjfP
— The Strickland (@TheStrickland) July 12, 2024
BUILD THE JALEN BRUNSON STATUE pic.twitter.com/5ccgIMXK18
— Knicks Videos (@sny_knicks) July 12, 2024
The Jalen Brunson statue 30 for 30 gonna be an all timer pic.twitter.com/f6LbFuzo7W
— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) July 12, 2024
We pouring honey on you goat @jalenbrunson1
— Josh Hart (@joshhart) July 12, 2024
Build him a statue
— Josh Hart (@joshhart) July 12, 2024
