SAN ANTONIO — OG Anunoby and Jalen Brunson in the Spotlight

OG Anunoby is experiencing a pivotal moment, one that could define his career. National recognition is finally coming for the Knicks’ standout two-way player, who may soon be in contention for the NBA Finals MVP.

However, Jalen Brunson is currently the favorite for this award. He’s determined to lead the Knicks toward their first championship in 53 years, breaking a long title drought that stretches back to his own time in San Antonio.

Brunson shared a bit of his mindset during a press conference at the Frostbank Center. “I think one thing I’ve always kept in mind, and my parents have echoed, is not to fear failure,” he reflected. “During the summer, when I’m envisioning plays, I imagine myself in those moments…”

“When the big moments come, I don’t get scared. Even if things don’t go my way, I feel like I’ve learned something regardless. When it’s just me, without any spectators, I’m confident in my abilities,” he added.

In Game 4, Brunson truly shined, contributing to a historic 29-point comeback. He clocked in 36 points, alongside seven assists, five rebounds, and three steals. A crucial three-pointer against Victor Wembanyama brought the Knicks within one point late in the game, ultimately scoring the go-ahead basket.

Often, Brunson has played the role of the hero, notably scoring 13 points in the fourth quarter of Game 1 and executing a key steal in Game 2. Yet, he faced challenges in previous games, struggling against a tenacious defense that was relentless.

After three games, Brunson had scored 82 points on 81 attempts, experienced 13 turnovers, and matched his assists. His performance rating was less than stellar. Game 4, however, was different; he found his rhythm, hitting 12 of 25 shots. He also made history as the first Knick to score over 30 points in three games of a single NBA Finals.

“Regardless of winning or losing, the night after the game is spent reflecting on what worked and what didn’t,” Brunson stated. “But the next morning, I remind myself to move forward. We still have work ahead. We need to improve and not let ourselves slip into tough situations again.”

“We have to keep our faith,” he emphasized.

Since Brunson’s phenomenal 40-point performance in last year’s first round, the Knicks have not found themselves needing his late-game magic in clinching scenarios.

They recently dominated the Celtics by 38 points, decisively ending an upset in last year’s second round. This postseason alone, they surpassed Atlanta by 51 points, Philadelphia by 30, and Cleveland by 37.

In the NBA Finals, every game is likely to come down to the final minutes.

And then there’s Jalen Brunson, who has transformed from a lesser-known second-round pick into one of the city’s most adored athletes, still facing the ultimate challenge ahead.

“We recognize this unique opportunity,” Brunson noted. “When preparing for a game, doing the necessary drills, it gets you into the right mindset. When game time arrives, you’re ready, having conditioned your mind and body for the challenge.”