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The New York Knicks' long and agonizing 53-year wait for another NBA title ended in spectacular fashion this year, after they defeated the San Antonio Spurs in a hard-fought five-game series in the NBA Finals.
And while the Knicks' elite talent and remarkable composure played a critical part in their impressive championship run, NBA Finals MVP Jalen Brunson pointed to an underrated key to their success, not just this season but over the last few years: their seamless chemistry.
Most fans are aware that Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart are all well-versed in playing with one another due to their experience at Villanova. However, the 6'2" superstar guard clarified that their terrific chemistry goes beyond their college roots.
Grown together
While it undoubtedly helps working with people you've known for quite some time, that's not enough to develop the chemistry needed to overcome all the obstacles that stand in the way of an NBA title. Brunson believes they have developed just that after going through the mud in the last few years, losing in the East semis in consecutive seasons and faltering in the East finals last year.
Adversity breeds strength, and it's clear that the Knicks have grown stronger, physically and mentally, after everything they've been through.
"We've grown over the past couple of years. This team has realized, obviously, how good we are individually. But I think once we all put it together as a team and kind of excelled and wanted the best for each other," Brunson shared.
"And literally said, 'Whatever it takes, we're going to find a way to win.' I think that's where our chemistry grew even more as well. So I feel like we have that connectivity."
A fun atmosphere
Obviously, the Knicks tighten up their laces and buckle down when it's time to go to work. However, being in an atmosphere where everyone feels safe and included greatly helps forge a bond that won't fray when the chips aren't falling their way. This was the case when the Knicks went 2-11 during a brutal stretch in January, and again in the first round of the playoffs when they trailed the Atlanta Hawks, 2-1.
While less-connected teams would have let the rope slacken, the Knicks hung tough and powered through the rough waters.
"We're constantly joking around off the court. On the court, obviously, we're very stoic and try to get the job done, except for one player on our team. You know… Josh. But yeah, our chemistry is, I believe, one of the best. It's been really fun,"Brunson asserted.
Meanwhile, in a separate interview, Knicks president Leon Rose credited Brunson for helping set the tone regarding the team's united culture. Despite being the face of the franchise, he wasn't aloof or believed he was above everyone else. Instead, he was inclusive and, most of all, unflappable, a must in an unforgiving city like New York.
"We brought him in, and he had shown what he could do in the Finals series when Luka went down. I truly believe that he could come into New York, and I knew New York wouldn't faze him because that's a huge piece of all the decisions you make with regard to players, coming to New York," Rose explained. "Can they handle New York? Can they handle the big stage? Can they handle the moment?"
With the Knicks now champions, that togetherness will be tested as they face every team's best punch this coming season. Will they be able to take it? Time will tell.
