Jalen Brunson stood above the noise in the heart of Madison Square Garden, with the clock ticking down and Game 6 hanging in the balance. He hit a clutch shot, then looked up towards the rafters, where two Villanova championship banners hang. It’s a familiar sight for Brunson, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo, who helped earn those titles in college. Now, they are rewriting history for a New York Knicks team that just clinched back-to-back playoff series wins for the first time since 2000.
The moment drew immediate comparisons to another undersized guard who once dominated a postseason from the same court. Allen Iverson, in 2001, powered the Philadelphia 76ers to the finals, leading an immense offensive load while surrounded by gritty role players. It’s a near-identical scene that Brunson appears to be following in 2024. But here’s the twist that this might be doing it more efficiently.
Jalen Brunson’s Playoff Run Matches Allen Iverson’s Greatness
Iverson’s 2001 playoff run is one of the most memorable in the history of the NBA. He averaged 32.9 points and 6.1 assists per game, making up more than a third of the 76ers’ total scoring. This year, Jalen Brunson is putting up numbers that are just as impressive. In the 2024 playoffs, he is averaging 35.5 points and 9.0 assists per game. He’s involved in nearly 73% of the Knicks’ offense, either by scoring or setting up his teammates.
Statistically, Brunson matches or surpasses Iverson in key areas. Since 2022, Brunson averaged 30.2 points and 6.8 assists per game with a 56.8 actual shooting percentage. During his best years from 1000 to 2005, Iverson had similar scoring and assists numbers, 30.6 points and 6.1 assists, but with a lower actual shooting percentage of 49.1. That difference in efficiency is essential, especially in today’s game, where defenses are more complex.
Jalen Brunson is putting up Allen Iverson playoff numbers… and barely anyone’s talking about it.
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) May 31, 2025
Since 2022, Brunson’s averaged:
🔹 30.2 PPG
🔹 6.8 APG
🔹 56.8 TS%
For comparison, Iverson from 1999–2005:
🔸 30.6 PPG
🔸 6.1 APG
🔸 49.1 TS%
Same production. More efficiency.… pic.twitter.com/dLEXlX2ysb
Brunson’s last four games against the 76ers were incredible. He averaged 41.8 points and 10.3 assists, a rare and elite level of performance. While Iverson was famous for his speed and flashy moves, Brunson beat defenders with skill, smart footwork, and basketball intelligence.
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The Knicks have not reached the final like Iverson’s 76ers did, but Brunson is putting together a playoff run to remember. He’s not just playing well, he’s doing something truly special. And even though it’s not getting as much attention, the stars clearly show that this might be a historic run.
Also Read: Is Jalen Brunson Playing Tonight Against The Indiana Pacers? Latest Injury Update On Knicks Star
