Knicks Teammates Achieve Historic Victory

New York Knicks stars Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Mikal Bridges made history by becoming the first set of teammates to win both a college national title and an NBA championship together. The Knicks secured their first NBA title since 1973 by defeating the San Antonio Spurs in the 2026 NBA Finals.

Brunson, named NBA Finals MVP, co-hosts the ‘Roommates Show’ podcast with Hart, and their on-air banter is a highlight for fans. Despite their humorous exchanges, the players share a deep camaraderie.

It’s a lot more special knowing me and Mikal have one more [championship] than Josh, Brunson joked when appearing on the ‘TODAY’ show with Bridges and Hart. However, his jest underscored their strong bond.

Reflecting on their journey, Brunson said, It’s special knowing that, when we were younger, we all had a goal of obviously trying to make it to the NBA and, in that long-term goal, we were able to achieve something great in college. Obviously, me and Mikal achieving something great twice — more than Josh. He expressed how their mutual support and friendship have been constant through their careers.

Brunson also shared a heartfelt moment where Hart texted him and Bridges, stating, I don’t know if I can say this in person because I may be emotional, but I really love you guys, and it really means the most to me to know you guys are here doing this with me.

The trio won the NCAA national championship with the Villanova Wildcats in 2016. Hart was picked 30th overall in the 2017 NBA Draft. In 2018, Brunson and Bridges led Villanova to another NCAA title. Bridges was drafted 10th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018, and Brunson was picked 33rd overall by the Dallas Mavericks.

Brunson joined the Knicks in July 2022, with Bridges and Hart following. Hart joined the Knicks through a trade with the Portland Trail Blazers in February 2023. Bridges’ transfer to the Knicks in a high-profile trade saw the Brooklyn Nets receive five first-round draft picks in July 2024. Their success is now part of the Knicks’ triumphant history.