Brunson was not alone for the occasion, as four of his championship-winning teammates—Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, O.G. Anunoby, and Josh Hart—were seated in the audience. The group played an active role in the monologue, turning the segment into an interactive experience that poked fun at their recent title run and their personal dynamics.
Teammates Join Brunson for Comedic Monologue
The monologue featured a series of lighthearted exchanges between the host and his teammates. Karl-Anthony Towns humorously inquired about the rules of the show, asking if it was possible to foul out, while Mikal Bridges engaged in a playful bit about his own physical attributes. O.G. Anunoby drew a significant reaction from the crowd when he brought up a specific moment from Game 4 of the NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs, recalling a crucial tip-in following a Brunson miss that helped secure the series victory.
Josh Hart, who co-hosts a podcast with Brunson, steered the conversation toward the financial side of the game, questioning the star guard about the $113 million he left on the table during his contract negotiations with the Knicks. Brunson countered by referencing a viral moment from the team’s NBA Cup win last season, keeping the banter focused on their shared history.
Joining Elite Company in SNL History
By taking on the hosting duties, Brunson joined a select group of NBA legends who have fronted the show, including Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, and Bill Russell. Notably, Brunson, Jordan, Barkley, and James all hold the distinction of hosting a season-premiere episode. The appearance also marked the first time a professional athlete has hosted since Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce took the stage in 2023.
During his opening, Brunson also addressed the team’s home court, Madison Square Garden, and joked about the high-profile wedding of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce held at the venue. He concluded his monologue with a promise to the audience, drawing a parallel between his hosting performance and his play on the court. He vowed that the show would mirror his approach to the NBA Finals, joking that while the first three quarters might be difficult to watch, the final sketch would be nothing short of spectacular.
