News Article
Published
Oct 20, 2026 at 10:43 AM EDT
Jalen Brunson is preparing for a night unlike any other at Madison Square Garden.
The New York Knicks captain is about to experience the rewards of a journey filled with sacrifice, patience and determination.
Before the celebrations begin, his mother has shared a deeply personal message.
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In a letter published by The Players' Tribune, Sandra Brunson reflected on her son's basketball journey and the family tradition that has followed him throughout his career.
She has sent him messages of encouragement before every game since high school.
The tradition began when Brunson was a sophomore. His father had moved away for a coaching opportunity, prompting Sandra to leave encouraging notes around the house before games.
Over time, those notes became texts. Now, ahead of the Knicks' season opener, she has written him a letter instead.
"I know that your instinct is always going to be to get back to business," Sandra wrote. "But you're still my baby boy, so you still have to listen to me. And I'm pulling the Mom Card on this one, and demanding that you let yourself enjoy the moment tonight."
She also reminded him of what the night represents.
"Tonight, you'll be playing basketball for the first time as an NBA champion. And I'm so, so, so proud of you."
Sandra also recalled the family's early connections to New York. When Brunson's father played for the Knicks, the family experienced the uncertainty of life in professional basketball. She said the kindness they received from people around the franchise never left her.
The letter arrives as New York prepares to raise its championship banner before facing the Philadelphia 76ers. The Knicks won their first NBA title since 1973 last season and will begin their title defense at home.
Brunson will lead a team hoping to repeat its success. But his mother's message offers a reminder that the moment is about more than basketball. It is also about the journey that made it possible.