The New York Knicks absolutely tore through the 2026 Playoffs, losing just three games total on their way to a championship title, and now we know 2011 MVP Derrick Rose was backing them every step of the way. Rose, mostly known for his Chicago Bulls days, had a significant part of his career with the Knicks, making his support for their incredible run all the more impactful.
Knicks Loyalty Runs Deep for D-Rose
Rose wasn’t just a casual observer. He’d had two separate stints with the Knicks, first in 2016-17 right after his Bulls tenure, and then again from 2021 to 2023. Even though he didn’t grab a championship during his own time there, he definitely became a cult legend for some Knicks fans, building strong relationships within the team. He even played alongside some of the guys who were on that championship squad! That history is exactly why it made total sense for him to be rooting for them in the 2026 Playoffs. Plus, he’s super tight with Rick Brunson, who’s an assistant coach for the Knicks and, oh yeah, Jalen Brunson’s dad. That connection was another huge reason Rose was such a massive fan, wanting nothing more than to see them succeed.
From Hawks Struggle to Championship Glory
The Knicks had a magical run, starting with a bit of a scare when they dropped two games to the Atlanta Hawks in the first round before completely flipping the switch and dominating the rest of the way. They didn’t just meet the hype, they crushed it. Rose even called Rick Brunson right before the Finals, telling him the Knicks were going to win against Wemby and the San Antonio Spurs. “I kinda had the Knicks winning the entire time,” Rose told Sports Illustrated, “My son is a Jalen fan, so he was cheering for them the whole Playoffs. I called Rick right before they got to the Finals. Told him that they were playing against Wemby, told them they were going to win. I’m just happy for Jalen, his family.” The Knicks absolutely delivered, beating the Spurs in the Finals and clinching their first title in 52 years.
Rose, who never got a ring himself, just wanted to see those close to him achieve that ultimate success. That championship wasn’t just a win for the team, it was a victory for everyone who’d been part of the journey, including former players like Rose. It proves the bond is real. Jalen Brunson’s title is even sparking debates, with Shannon Sharpe arguing it’s better than Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP, and Brunson himself admitting JJ Barea’s example helped him become a star. The Knicks might have a massive target on their backs now, but after that 2026 run, Jalen Brunson apparently doesn’t even care. What an era for New York basketball!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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