Aces coach Becky Hammon said Tuesday that Knicks star Jalen Brunson has placed himself in a rare category, acknowledging the guard’s exceptional impact while maintaining her broader stance on the challenges smaller guards face in leading teams to NBA titles.
Hammon described Brunson as an “outlier,” recognizing that his production and influence have distinguished him from many players of similar size. Brunson has become a central figure for New York, carrying a major role in the Knicks’ offense and establishing himself among the league’s top guards.
Still, Hammon did not apologize for or walk back her general view that small guards typically do not serve as the primary drivers of championship teams. Her comments drew attention because Brunson’s rise has challenged conventional evaluations of size, scoring responsibility and postseason viability at the guard position.
Hammon’s remarks reflect a distinction between Brunson’s individual standing and her overall assessment of roster construction in the NBA. While she credited Brunson for reaching a unique level, she continued to frame him as an exception rather than evidence against the broader trend she has cited.