As the New York Knicks returned to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999, past criticisms of guard Jalen Brunson resurfaced, including one from Las Vegas Aces head coach Becky Hammon, for which she remains unapologetic.

In 2023, during an NBA Today discussion on ESPN about the Knicks being stuck in purgatory, Hammon shared a hot take regarding Brunson's ceiling. She believed that the Knicks did not possess a true No. 1 star that will push them to win the title.

The Aces coach added that the 6'2" guard is "too small", comparing him to the likes of Allen Iverson, John Stockton, and Steve Nash, with Steph Curry as the only exception. However, with the Knicks now reaching the NBA Finals, Hammon's previous comments resurfaced, but she has remained unbothered.

"I speak from experience," Hammon, who was listed as 5'6" in her WNBA playing days, told reporters on Tuesday, May 26. "Allen Iverson got MVP, and he lost in the Finals. I think the two best teams are probably in the West, but I'm up for being proven wrong.”

"There's no air to be cleared. I said what I said. (If) he proves me wrong, he proves me wrong," Hammon said, when a reporter said they were giving her a chance to "clear the air".

And well, Brunson is definitely proving Hammon wrong till now, as the Knicks took a 1-0 lead against the San Antonio Spurs away from home, and the 6'2" guard was easily the best player on the court.

Brunson scored 30 points, 2 assists, and 3 rebounds, including a clutch fourth-quarter performance that ultimately won the Knicks the game.

Hammon added that it is obvious who she is supporting in the NBA Finals, being a San Antonio icon.

Becky Hammon Has a Rich History with San Antonio

Hammon made history in 2014 when she became the first full-time assistant coach of the San Antonio Spurs under head coach Gregg Popovich. She finished her stint in the NBA in 2021 and immediately joined the Aces as head coach.

But that is not all, as Hammon also spent eight seasons with the WNBA's San Antonio Stars, joining in 2006. She instantly became a beloved player to the city and its fans, both on and off the court.

On January 27, 2018, Hammon was enshrined into the San Antonio Sports Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2018.

So, yes, it is indeed quite clear as to whom the three-time WNBA champion coach is supporting in the NBA Finals.

With the Knicks leading the series, will Jalen Brunson end up proving Hammon wrong, or does the 7'4" Victor Wembanyama have something special in store for the Knicks? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Joy Bassy

Edited by

Joy Bassy