Jalen Brunson Clears Up Misinterpretation with Celtics Fans
Jalen Brunson did not bid farewell to Celtics supporters after Game 5.
Following a foul in the fourth quarter of Boston’s win, Brunson was seen on the big screen waving to the crowd.
This gesture, he clarified, was not an indication that he wouldn’t return to the Knicks for a potential Game 7 in the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals.
“You might think that, but it’s not true. People are saying, ‘I knew he was saying goodbye,’” Brunson mentioned during a podcast with Josh Hart. “I had just fouled out in the playoff game. We’re over 20 by now, and I saw myself on the screen. I wanted to find something positive in the not-so-great moment, so I gave a quick wave. I didn’t realize how it would be interpreted, and then after the game, it was everywhere.”
“Lucky for me, it was a quick thing… You have to keep your cool. Don’t let the moment get to you too much. If the camera’s on me, I guess I’ll just go with it. It was spontaneous, really. I didn’t plan it out,” he added.
Brunson and Hart exchanged some light-hearted banter during the podcast, discussing the recently concluded Subway Series. Hart expressed his view that New York baseball and basketball would be dominated by the Yankees and Knicks.
Brunson noted the presence of two basketball teams within five boroughs.
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Meanwhile, Hart humorously feigned ignorance, asking, “What? New Jersey Nets?” before chuckling and saying he had more outrageous things to say.
Brunson quickly interjected, “Just stop.”
In another event, Karl Anthony Towns attended a Yankees game against the Bronx Mets, receiving enthusiastic applause from the packed audience. “It was something special. Growing up a Yankees fan, their dedication means everything to me. It pushes you to strive harder,” he remarked.
As for player conditions, the only name on the injury report from either team was Pacers forward Isaiah Jackson, who has been sidelined since November due to an Achilles tendon issue.
The Knicks are organizing a watch party at Radio City Music Hall for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals, with tickets priced at $10, supporting the Garden of Dreams Foundation.

