Tom Thibodeau had high praise for Jalen Brunson after the All-Star guard hit the game-winning shot to lift the New York Knicks past the Detroit Pistons in Game 6 of their first-round playoff series.
Following Thursday night’s 116-113 victory, the Knicks’ head coach credited Brunson’s mental makeup and preparation for allowing him to rise to the moment.
“So, Jalen’s shot — what can you say? Timely,” Thibodeau told reporters postgame. “He’s at his best when his best is needed. He’s done it all year. That’s what makes him special.”
Brunson scored 40 points and sealed the game with a step-back three over Ausar Thompson with 4.3 seconds left, advancing the Knicks to a second-round showdown with the defending champion Boston Celtics.
The 28-year-old, who recently earned the NBA’s Clutch Player of the Year award, shook off a cold fourth quarter to hit the decisive shot and blow a kiss to a hostile Detroit crowd.
“Just having that belief and confidence,” Thibodeau said of Brunson’s approach. “He may miss that one, but he’ll shoot the next one great. That comes from his preparation.”
The Knicks’ coach also highlighted the supporting cast, including Karl-Anthony Towns, who grabbed 15 rebounds, and OG Anunoby and Josh Hart, who combined for 35 points and 15 rebounds.
“We needed them all,” Thibodeau said. “OG and Josh were phenomenal throughout. Josh just playing, doing the things that he does. Just showing the toughness to get down and then find a way to win at the end.”
Despite blowing multiple leads, including a 112-105 advantage with under three minutes remaining, New York regained control through Brunson’s clutch scoring and timely stops.
When asked what the back-and-forth nature of the game revealed about his team, Thibodeau pointed to resilience: “Just, you know, hang tough. Persevere. Get through things. The playoffs, as you know, it’s all about your toughness and your discipline.”
New York’s starting five accounted for 110 of the team’s 116 points, with Mikal Bridges contributing 25 and Anunoby hitting four three-pointers.
Detroit’s season ended on a mishandled pass by Malik Beasley with 0.4 seconds left, just after Cade Cunningham missed a layup that could have given the Pistons the lead.
Thibodeau acknowledged the growth of Detroit’s young roster and gave credit to head coach J.B. Bickerstaff. “JB and his staff did an incredible job all year long,” he said. “They’re young. Just their growth from last year to this year, and the veterans that they added — they added great shooting that complements the young guys.”
Thibodeau was also asked about the upcoming matchup with Boston but said the Knicks were focused on recovery and preparation. “They’re the defending champion, so we know that we’re going to have to be at our best.”
As New York looks ahead to Monday’s Game 1 at TD Garden, Thibodeau emphasized the need for consistency and focus.
“If you’re a competitor and you love challenges, that’s what you’re looking forward to,” he said. “There’s going to be one team standing. So prepare yourself to the best of your ability.”
With the win, the Knicks secured three road victories in a single series for the first time in franchise history.
“When you’re on the road, it’s really just your group,” Thibodeau said. “You have to have belief and trust in each other. If you understand what wins in the playoffs — it’s your defense, your toughness, and your teamwork.”
