Knicks Star Jalen Brunson: Video Games Are My Life

When asked what he couldn't live without, NBA champion Jalen Brunson gave the most relatable answer possible: video games.

The 29-year-old New York Knicks star admitted his honest answer during an interview with his mother, Sandra, for Lindsay Czarniak's podcast. While his mom gave the heartfelt answer of "family," Brunson had something different in mind.

"So my answer was going to be video games, but I can't do that now," Brunson said, laughing alongside his mother. He's currently playing FC 26, EA's latest soccer game, and already waiting for the next edition.

Growing up, Brunson had to earn his gaming time through an educational exchange program his parents created. For every hour he spent playing video games, he had to match it with reading or studying.

"Any amount of hours he put into the video games he had to give back in the form of education whether it was reading a book," Sandra explained. The system limited his screen time while building strong study habits.

But young Jalen found a loophole: he could play as much as he wanted when friends came over. That rule would serve him well decades later.

Sunny's Take

Fast forward to today, and two of Brunson's closest friends from Villanova, Josh Hart and Mikal Bridges, are his teammates on the Knicks. If his parents' old rules still applied, he'd have unlimited gaming time during the season.

That friendship trio proved instrumental in June when the Knicks won their first championship in 53 years. Brunson earned Finals MVP honors for his leadership on the court.

The moment shows how the game's biggest stars are just like the rest of us. Between championship parades and MVP trophies, Brunson still finds joy in the simple pleasure of gaming with friends.

As the Knicks' captain prepares to defend their title next summer, fans can take comfort knowing their leader stays humble and grounded. He's proven you can reach the highest levels of success while keeping the hobbies that bring you joy.