Jalen Brunson, the New York Knicks' star who led the team to its first NBA championship since 1973 and earned Finals MVP honors, hosted the season opener of "Saturday Night Live" on NBC on September 27, 2026. This marked a celebratory moment for both the Knicks and their fans, coinciding with the start of the team's training camp as they pursue another title.
Read More
Brunson's hosting adds him to a select group of only five NBA players who have helmed the iconic late-night show. He joins the likes of Bill Russell, Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, and LeBron James, each of whom had their own memorable SNL appearances. Russell hosted while between coaching stints, and both Jordan and Barkley were active players during their times as hosts. James was only 22 when he first appeared on the show, having yet to secure his first MVP or championship title.
In his monologue, Brunson engaged the audience with humor, solidifying himself as a natural performer. The show, recorded in NBC’s Studio 8H at 30 Rockefeller Plaza in Manhattan, celebrated the synergy of New York culture during the autumn season.
As a recap of previous NBA hosts, Russell appeared on November 3, 1979, discussing teamwork in both basketball and television. Michael Jordan hosted on September 28, 1991, right after winning his first championship, providing a memorable skit about self-esteem with Al Franken's character. Charles Barkley's multiple appearances included his SNL debut on September 25, 1993, while LeBron James hosted on September 29, 2007, showcasing his comedic skills at a young age.
Brunson's hosting reflects the continuing intersection of sports and entertainment, highlighting the NBA's influence beyond the court.