Ahead of his title defense next season with the New York Knicks, Jalen Brunson will first take on a new role off the court as he prepares to host the season premiere of Saturday Night Live.
NBC announced that the Knicks superstar and 2026 NBA Finals MVP will make his hosting debut to kick off SNL's Season 52 on Sept. 26.
Brunson will be joined by the pop girl group Katseye as the musical guest.
Jalen Brunson to host Saturday Night Live
After leading the New York Knicks' 2026 NBA championship run, the magical year of Jalen Brunson continues with this significant hosting gig from Saturday Night Live.
While particularly laid-back, Brunson himself already has hosting experience. Brunson regularly shows his comedic attitude and wit on The Roommates Show, a popular podcast he co-hosts with his Knicks teammate Josh Hart and entrepreneur Matt Hillman.
Jalen Brunson makes New York sports, NBA history in upcoming SNL hosting gig
Jalen Brunson's hosting gig marks the very first time a New York Knick has ever hosted Saturday Night Live in the show's 51-year history.
Brunson will also follow two New York sports icons, Eli Manning and Derek Jeter, as the third athlete from the city to host.
Moreover, the reigning Finals MVP will become only the fifth NBA player to take on SNL hosting duties, following in the footsteps of Bill Russell, Michael Jordan, LeBron James and Charles Barkley.