The New York Knicks are poised for an important moment in the 2026 NBA Finals, holding a commanding 3-1 series lead against the San Antonio Spurs. As they prepare for Game 5 at the Frost Bank Center in Texas, one key supporter of the Knicks is drawing attention for her unique approach to the excitement surrounding the series.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/jalen-brunson-ali-marks-060326-4bb8ecc7dfd24012ad3aa464d7e5c9a7.jpg)
Ali Brunson, wife of Knicks guard Jalen Brunson, has shared her superstitious strategy for supporting her husband during crucial moments of the game. Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE, Ali revealed her particular ritual centres around Jalen’s free throws. She explained that when he steps up to the line, she synchronises her breathing with his in an effort to boost his performance.
“Just related to his free throws. When he’s on the line… he takes a deep breath. He’s trying to slow his pace down a little bit,” Ali explained during the interview. “And so, I try to match my breath up to when he’s breathing. I feel like it’s helping him make the shot.” The energetic wife jokingly noted that fans may begin to notice Jalen’s breathing habits as they watch him take his shots.
Ali Brunson’s strategy may seem unconventional, but it underlines the many superstitions that have emerged from the world of sport. “It’s a little thing,” she added, acknowledging the whimsical nature of her routine. “This superstitious stuff is just getting too much.” Nonetheless, Ali remains confident ahead of the critical Game 5, a victory in which would secure the coveted Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy for the Knicks.
The atmosphere in New York City has been charged with excitement as the Knicks aim to bring home a championship. Ali described the buzz: “The energy in the city is different. Orange and blue is everywhere. It’s just been hyped up to a new level.” The Knicks’ colours have flooded the streets, further reflecting the passion of the fans during this thrilling phase of the playoffs.
Ali also spoke about her partnership with Reese’s Oreo, noting that its packaging fits perfectly with the Knicks’ iconic colour scheme. As the finals progress, she is reminded of the enthusiasm that has enveloped the city, contributing to the palpable sense of hope among supporters.
In the context of a potential championship celebration, Ali maintains a balanced perspective. She expressed optimism without being overly exuberant: “There’s such good energy going around the city right now. We can feel it,” she said. With an unshakeable belief in the team’s abilities, Ali confidently stated, “They’ll make it happen.”
The couple’s relationship has deep roots dating back to their high school days in Lincolnshire, Illinois. Jalen and Ali’s love story began in October 2013, blossoming during their time at Adlai E. Stevenson High School. Their senior prom together in 2015 is just one highlight in their long history.
As Jalen pursued his basketball career, Ali remained committed to her studies, attending the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign while also completing her doctorate in physical therapy at Northwestern University. The couple managed a long-distance relationship while they navigated their respective college experiences, which included Jalen being drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in 2018.
Their love story culminated in September 2022 when Jalen proposed at their high school gym, a sentimental location that holds many memories for the pair. They officially tied the knot in 2023, with Jalen expressing gratitude for Ali’s unwavering support throughout their relationship: “She’s always been by my side and I’m lucky to have her,” he remarked after the wedding.
The Brunsons welcomed their first child, a daughter named Jordyn James, on July 31, 2024. As they prepare to face the Spurs in a pivotal Game 5, both their family and career milestones reflect the journey of two individuals growing alongside each other while navigating the highs and lows of professional sport.
As the NBA Finals continue, all eyes will be on the Knicks and their efforts to secure glory. Whether through careful preparation or superstitious rituals, the blend of talent, determination, and support from loved ones like Ali Brunson is sure to create a narrative worth following.