Jalen Brunson Says No Thanks To ‘King Of New York’ Nickname – Here’S Why

Brunson rejects the ‘King of New York’ label

Jalen Brunson has put a hard stop on one of the flashier nicknames that’s followed him since becoming New York’s leading man. Speaking on The Road Trippin' Show, the 30-year-old made it clear he won’t call himself the “King of New York.”

His reaction was immediate and blunt – Brunson said embracing that title would feel too self-centered, so he’d rather avoid it altogether and let his actions on the court speak for him.

Why he won’t wear the crown

Staying humble matters

Brunson explained that adopting a royal nickname would clash with the way he wants to be perceived. He argued that introducing himself as a “king” in interviews or casual settings would come off as egotistical, and that’s not the image he wants to project.

Instead, he leans on the people around him to keep perspective. Brunson said the circle he’s had since high school — plus his parents — are the reason he’s been able to stay grounded despite rising fame.

“I’m not going to crown myself – that feels like letting the ego do the talking. I’d rather people see the work and the team first,” Brunson said, summarizing his approach to labels and leadership.

How Brunson’s role in New York evolved

The “King of New York” tag has trailed Brunson since he became the Knicks’ go-to player. He signed with New York in 2022 and quickly grew into the franchise centerpiece and one of the city’s most recognizable athletes.

His profile only rose after a standout postseason — Brunson entered the conversation as a premier leader after earning 2026 NBA Finals MVP honors, but he still prefers to collect accolades through team success rather than self-proclaimed titles.

Letting performance do the talking

For Brunson, maintaining the personality that got him to the NBA is more important than embracing a flashy nickname. He credits his longtime friends and parents for keeping him the same person off the court as he is on it.

Rather than proclaim himself king, Brunson seems content to earn whatever nicknames and honors come with winning — particularly if he can help bring a championship back to New York.