Back from Cancún.
And just like that, vacations are over.
And also thank God, the All-Star Weekend and mostly the (worst) All-Star “Game” is finally in the rearview mirror. Sheesh.
Here’s the latest from the couple of Knicks repping the team in California during the weekend.
Jalen Brunson
On his performance in the 3-point contest:
“Started off hot, I felt great. And then… Oops.
You could practice all you want, but once you get out there it’s a tad different.”
On possibly entering the 3-point contest again next season:
“Maybe. I don’t know. I’ll leave that door open.”
On his shooting improvement over the years:
“There’s no secret. I go into every summer thinking, ‘How can I become the most consistent and complete player, the most efficient player I can be?’ Just working on my shot and making sure it’s as comfortable as possible.”
On enjoying his second All-Star Game:
“It’s been good. Last year being the first one and not really knowing what to expect. This time, I think I’m actually kind of enjoying it. So it’s been fun having my family here. That’s the best part about.”
On playing against Karl-Anthony Towns in the All-Star Game:
“We are actually not friends at all, so competing against him is going to be fun.”
On the Knicks’ season:
“It’s been fun. It’s been a steady process throughout every game. It’s been fun to go through this journey with the guys we have. I’ve enjoyed every second of it.”
Karl-Anthony Towns
On playing at his own pace:
“I don’t know if I’m such a high flyer as my second or third year, but I’m definitely playing more at my speed this year than I did at other years.”
On his improvement as he keeps gaining experience through the years:
“I just got a better feel. Experience teaches a lot.”
On his performance and the Knicks’ success:
“Of course, you always want better. So never satisfied.
But I’m just happy that I was able to implement myself into the team and that it resulted in winning. You guys were telling me the stats of having the best record going into the All-Star break since [the franchise’s last championship season in 1973]. Hopefully, history coincides with that and brings a ring with it.”
On the Knicks’ struggles against top-tier teams such as Boston:
“When I look back at those games, they were ugly as hell. And when I look towards the future, I pray they’re not as ugly.”
On the Knicks’ defensive potential:
“It’s a level I’ve seen and done before in Minnesota, so I think we have the pieces and talent to do it.”
On his father attending every game:
“He definitely has made it a commitment. I’m just blessed to have a father who loves his son that much.
I know a lot of people, especially people in my friend groups and stuff, they didn’t have that luxury. So to have a father who is committed to his son, loves his son enough to make these trips and cheer me on in all my endeavors, I don’t take that lightly. Because I have friends and associates that really wish they had that opportunity that I’m very fortunate every day to have.”
On deferring leadership to Jalen Brunson:
“I didn’t come over to be a distraction or disrupt the flow or be on an ego trip or anything. It’s about the team. And I came to amplify them and amplify Cap’.
You can’t win a championship by yourself. You need everybody. And I’m just happy we have a team full of guys who are willing to sacrifice and look at the big picture and do what it takes to bring the city wins every single night, and hopefully, it results in a chip.”
On Jalen Brunson’s leadership:
“The guy who makes it all happen is Cap. Huge honor for both of us to be part of one of the best organizations in the world and represent as starters. Means a lot to us.”