Jalen Brunson led the New York Knicks to their first-ever Emirates NBA Cup championship on December 16, 2025, defeating the San Antonio Spurs 124-113 in a high-energy final at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Jalen Brunson Shines as NBA Cup MVP: Knicks Win Sparks Viral Teammate Moment with Josh Hart
The All-Star guard earned tournament MVP honors with a strong 25-point performance, complemented by eight rebounds and stellar playmaking that propelled the Knicks through a tough bracket including wins over the Bucks, Heat, Raptors, and Magic twice.
OG Anunoby paced the Finals scoring with 28 points, but it was Brunson’s steady leadership that sealed the franchise’s first trophy of any kind since 1973. The victory delivered a $500,000 bonus to each player and marked a milestone for the in-season tournament.
Viral Celebration Moment Between Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart
Amid the joyous trophy lift with confetti raining down and Karl-Anthony Towns hoisting the cup, a playful interaction between longtime friends Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart stole the spotlight. As Brunson reached up to help steady the trophy, Hart—standing behind him—made a surprise gesture directed at Brunson’s lower back area, prompting the MVP to quickly turn around with a startled look.
The moment, captured clearly on broadcast cameras, spread rapidly across social media, amassing millions of views overnight. Fans reacted with laughter and shock, highlighting the duo’s close bond.
Deep Friendship Roots in Villanova Success
Jalen Brunson and Hart’s camaraderie dates back to their Villanova days (2015-2017), where they won the 2016 NCAA Championship together. Now reunited in New York, they co-host the popular “Roommates Show” podcast, often showcasing their brotherly dynamic. This isn’t their first lighthearted on-court exchange—similar playful antics have occurred before, always in good fun.
Hart quickly addressed the buzz on X, posting “Damn in 4k…..😂😂😂😂” followed by “IT WAS AI,” jokingly denying the clear footage. The humorous response only amplified the clip’s virality.
Broader Impact and Fan Reactions
The lighthearted prank overshadowed some on-court highlights but underscored the Knicks’ team chemistry. Social media erupted with memes and commentary, with many praising the genuine friendship amid the celebration. While some called it “out of pocket,” the consensus leaned toward good-natured ribbing between best friends.
For Jalen Brunson, the night solidified his status as a clutch performer and leader, guiding New York to hardware and boosting momentum for the regular season.
References:
- https://www.tmz.com/2025/12/17/josh-hart-jalen-brunson-thumb-butt-nba-cup-viral-video/
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