What’s it really like to step into the shoes of Jalen Brunson, a standout player in the NBA? While I may never fully comprehend his perspective, I made an attempt to gain some insight.
In a recent game against the Atlanta Hawks, where Brunson scored an impressive 34 points contributing to a narrow 128-125 win, I found him seated next to his locker in the visitor's area of State Farm Arena. I handed him an iPad loaded with five video clips showcasing some of his plays from the current season. Rather than focusing on his most spectacular moments—like game-winning shots or dazzling ankle-breakers—I selected plays that I believed would provide a fascinating opportunity to delve into his thought process during various situations on the court.
With the iPad in hand, Brunson graciously obliged as we spent around five minutes reviewing each clip. Throughout our discussion, he shared valuable insights, giving me a glimpse into the mind of one of basketball's elite offensive talents.
Let’s dive into what it was like to analyze film alongside this exceptional player.
(Note: For brevity and clarity, questions have been streamlined.)
In this first clip, we witness a switch involving Wendell Carter Jr., followed by OG Anunoby's cut to clear space. What are your observations here? Is it simply about maintaining spacing?
"When we get the switch, Karl-Anthony Towns tends to roll down and stay in the dunker spot. If I remain at the top, I’ll have to navigate towards the middle. However, positioning myself at the left wing with KAT on the opposite side allows for greater freedom of movement, letting me attack either direction."
Reflecting back to the moment you first receive the switch, do you notice that Desmond Bane can easily help from the left, while Anthony Black could do so from the right? In such a case, it seems like your only option might be to take a pull-up three-pointer.
"Without revealing too much of our strategy, we aim for a 3-1 spacing setup—three players on one side, one on the other, with me at an angle. This configuration allows us to read and react effectively to each other's movements, which is crucial for our success."
Now onto another play—a straightforward isolation. When you find yourself one-on-one with an opponent, how much of your success comes from practiced moves versus analyzing their footwork and positioning?
"I strive to occupy as much space as I can. If he backs off, I will press forward. After making contact, I gauge how he’s attempting to direct me. As I mentioned, it’s about maximizing space rather than just settling for a shot. Early in this game, I started off 0 for 5. My goal was to reach my comfort zone."
The aggressive dribble followed by a spin toward the middle is a move you utilize frequently. Is this instinctual, or do you choose it based on Darius Garland cutting off your drive to the left?
"It’s a blend of both factors. Observing that he’s parallel to the sideline suggests he must open up to allow me to drive back to the center. I believe there's enough room to create a shooting opportunity."
Transitioning to another scenario, we’ve discussed your increased movement without the ball. When you receive the ball after coming off a screen, what’s your initial focus?
"This time, I managed to lose (Andrew) Nembhard, who trailed behind. My attention shifts to (Bennedict) Mathurin, who's positioned low in the paint. I gauge whether he commits to me. I slow my pace slightly to elevate the ball—if he tries to block, I can quickly dish it out since the area is crowded."
At what point do you realize that throwing a lob to Trey (Jemison III) isn’t a viable option?
"As soon as I see everyone stay in their positions and (Isaiah Jackson) retreat, I sense there won’t be any contest. That’s when I decide to aim for the rim."
In this particular play, you find yourself trapped beneath the basket, but Miles (McBride) relocates to the corner, providing you an outlet. To what extent does trust play a role in your decision to pass to him?
"Trust is vital here. Honestly, when I spun around and faced a wall, I had no other alternatives. If (Derrick White) had cut me off, I would’ve directed (Miles) back up the court. Fortunately, there was no obstruction, allowing me to make the pass."
So during that moment, you’re just crossing your fingers that he’s in position?
"Absolutely, it was a mix of hope and a bit of luck."
Lastly, I find it intriguing how quickly you decide to relocate to the three-point line after passing to Josh (Hart), instead of lingering near the basket. Many players would merely make the pass and stay put when a teammate takes an open shot. What was your thought process?
"First off, I’d question what I could do to snag an offensive rebound amidst all those towering players. Secondly, I want to get back on defense. If we secure an offensive rebound, it becomes a scramble. I’ve practiced relocating and adjusting to various actions, so I recognized this as a prime chance for a catch-and-shoot three-pointer."
Was it a matter of realizing that chasing an offensive rebound was futile, prompting you to get back on defense in case the shot misses?
"Exactly! If I were to grab an offensive rebound, it would likely be from outside the paint. My focus needs to be at the elbows or transitioning back on defense."
