As the New York Knicks celebrate their historic N.B.A. championship win, a new trend in baby naming might be emerging. According to experts, Knicks-loving parents could increasingly choose names of the team’s star players for their newborns.

The name ‘Jalen,’ referring to Jalen Brunson, the team’s captain and MVP of the finals, is already a popular choice. Baby-naming consultants suggest it may become even more widespread. Other names like Joshua (Hart), Miles (McBride), and Tyler (Kolek) are among the top 1,000 baby names in the United States. Landry (Shamet) is also gaining popularity, based on Social Security Administration data.

Pamela Redmond, the chief executive of the baby-naming website Nameberry, observes that the appeal isn’t solely due to the team’s success. The players’ likability and the strong sense of community support around the team have contributed significantly.

“I think what’s happened, not just in New York but nationally, is that people are just galvanized by the show of community,” said Redmond. “This feels increasingly important at a time when it’s increasingly rare.”

Experts believe that Jalen Brunson might become as influential in baby naming as Michael Jordan once was. Brunson’s first and last names could see a rise in use among new parents.

Data from 2025 shows there were nine baby boys named Brunson. Meanwhile, New York City Health Department records indicate only five babies named Jalen since March, but they anticipate a rise.

Redmond also speculates an increase in girls receiving the name Jalen or variations of it. She humorously hopes the name ‘Brunsina’ won’t catch on.