Jalen Brunson described Thursday’s victory over the Indiana Pacers (114-113) as particularly satisfying. “I sucked at the beginning of the game and then my stretch in the second half sucked too. I just want to thank the Lord for Tyler Kolek, for playing the way he plays and for saving me. We found a way to win this one,” Brunson said.
Brunson reflected on his game-winning 3-pointer with 4.4 seconds left. “Very similar shot to the one I made before… I feel comfortable going that way. I knew I would get another chance, and I’m just happy the ball went in, we came away with a win,” he explained.
He praised Kolek’s recent development, noting the guard’s preparation and consistency. “He just stays ready…he works as hard as anyone. Even on dark days, I take pride in trying to be the only one in the gym and he’s there with me. He can always stay ready because of his work ethic,” Brunson said.
Brunson also recognized Kolek as an extension of his own game. “The world may be surprised, but we knew this is what he was capable of. His game is so similar to mine,” he added.
New York overcame a 16-point deficit in the first quarter, with Kolek recording career highs of 16 points and 11 assists. Brunson led the team with 25 points, seven rebounds and seven assists, while OG Anunoby contributed 16 points and secured the final inbound steal that clinched the win.
Mikal Bridges added 22 points and eight rebounds to help the Knicks rally from a 28-12 hole in the first quarter and tie the game at 111 on Anunoby’s three-pointer with 1:51 left. Indiana was followed by Andrew Nembhard, who scored 31 points, and Pascal Siakam added 26, but the Pacers fell short despite shooting 46% overall.
Brunson emphasized the team’s collective effort to overcome adversity. “We found a way to win…Tyler Kolek saved me tonight. It’s about staying ready and trusting each other, and that’s what our team did,” he said.
The win extends New York’s winning streak to seven games, with the Knicks shooting 47% from the field and 40% from three-point range. New York defeated Indiana 52-46, retaining possession at crucial moments.
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