For the first time in 27 years, the New York Knicks hosted the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden on Monday, battling the San Antonio Spurs in Game 3 and looking to take a 3-0 lead.
The last time it happened in 1999, also against the Spurs, Patrick Ewing was still the face of the Knicks, although he was forced to sit out the best-of-seven series because of an Achilles injury. San Antonio defeated New York, 4-1.
Now, almost three decades later, he has a strong chance to witness his beloved team win the championship.
On Inside the NBA, Ewing was asked if he could transport any current member to his old squad, who would he pick? The Hall of Famer did not hesitate with his answer.
“Jalen Brunson,” said Ewing with a smile. “I'm no fool.”
Kenny Smith "If you could transport one Knick from this team to your team who––"
Patrick Ewing "Jalen Brunson"
Kenny "There it is"
Patrick "I'm no fool" pic.twitter.com/8YKqTJzGKn
— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) June 9, 2026
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Brunson has been the driving force of the Knicks' resurgence over the past few years, and the 63-year-old Ewing has often expressed his admiration for the crafty playmaker.
Ewing, who is part of the front office as basketball ambassador, is considered one of the NBA's all-time greats. But he never actually played in the NBA Finals, let alone won a ring. Perhaps he is living his dream vicariously through the current squad, especially through the 29-year-old Brunson.
The Knicks in the NBA Finals in 1999 were led by Allan Houston, Latrell Sprewell, Larry Johnson, Marcus Camby, and Charlie Ward. Also part of the gritty crew was Brunson's father, Rick Brunson, who is now an assistant coach.
As of writing, New York is trailing San Antonio in the second quarter. Brunson has seven points on 3-of-8 shooting.
For the first time in 27 years, the New York Knicks hosted the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden on Monday, battling the San Antonio Spurs in Game 3 and looking to take a 3-0 lead. The last time it happened in 1999, also against the Spurs, Patrick Ewing was still the face of the Knicks, although he was forced to sit out the best-of-seven series because of an Achilles injury.