In a display of sharpshooting prowess, Jalen Brunson led Team Knicks to victory in the Kia Shooting Stars Challenge on Saturday at Intuit Dome, securing new hardware for New York during NBA All-Star Weekend in Inglewood. As the pre-event favorite, the Knicks squad delivered, outdueling three formidable opponents in the competition that pairs NBA stars, legends, and celebrities for trick shots and long-range bombs.
Team Knicks featured Knicks guard Jalen Brunson, center Karl-Anthony Towns, Knicks legend Allan Houston, and their celebrity passer, Rick Brunson—Jalen's father and a Knicks assistant coach. The father-son duo added a personal flair to the event, captivating the crowd with their chemistry on and off the court.
The first challenge came against Team All-Star, comprised of Toronto Raptors guard Scottie Barnes, Oklahoma City Thunder center Chet Holmgren, Detroit Pistons legend Rip Hamilton, and celebrity passer Druski. Team Knicks dispatched them handily, setting the tone for the night.
Next up was Team Cameron, featuring Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson, Charlotte Hornets guard Kon Knueppel, former Los Angeles Clippers forward Corey Maggette, and celebrity passer Anthony Anderson. Once again, Brunson and company prevailed, advancing toward the title.
The final hurdle was Team Harper, which boasted San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper, Boston Celtics guard Ron Harper Jr., NBA legend Ron Harper, and celebrity passer 2 Chainz. Team Knicks overcame the threat, clinching the Shooting Stars Challenge championship.
Adding to the entertainment before the competition kicked off, the Brunsons took the microphone, where Rick Brunson delivered some playful smack talk to his son. Jalen responded with a lighthearted quip, joking that he was “not having a good time,” drawing laughs from the audience and highlighting the fun family dynamic at play.
