New York Knicks players Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Mikal Bridges achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first group of former college teammates to win both a national championship and an NBA championship together. The Knicks triumphed over the San Antonio Spurs in the 2026 NBA Finals, marking their first championship victory since 1973.

Jalen Brunson was named NBA Finals MVP. He co-hosts the “Roommates Show” podcast with Josh Hart, where they often engage in playful banter. Despite their humor, their bond is genuine and deep.

During an appearance on the “TODAY” show with Jenna Bush Hager, Brunson, Bridges, and Hart reflected on their victory. They were asked if winning the NBA title was more special because of their shared success at Villanova. Brunson humorously responded, “It’s a lot more special knowing me and Mikal have one more [championship] than Josh.” He quickly followed with a deeper sentiment.

“It’s special knowing that, when we were younger, we all had a goal of making it to the NBA, and we were able to achieve something great in college,” Brunson said. He added, “Me and Mikal achieving something great twice — more than Josh — but it’s awesome knowing that, no matter what’s the situation, we all have each other’s back. We all have love for each other.”

Brunson shared a touching text from Hart, who expressed his gratitude and emotional connection to his teammates. Hart wrote, “I don’t know if I can say this in person because I may be emotional, but I really love you guys, and it means the most to me to know you guys are here doing this with me.”

The trio, alongside their Villanova teammates, celebrated an NCAA national championship victory in 2016. Hart was drafted 30th overall in the 2017 NBA Draft. Brunson and Bridges were keys to Villanova’s 2018 NCAA national championship team. Bridges was selected 10th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018, while Brunson was picked 33rd overall by the Dallas Mavericks in the same draft.

Brunson joined the Knicks in July 2022. Bridges and Hart reunited with him in New York soon after. The Knicks traded for Hart from the Portland Trail Blazers in February 2023. Bridges arrived in New York through a significant trade in July 2024, involving five first-round draft picks sent to the Brooklyn Nets. Their journey culminated in a shared NBA title, solidifying their legacy.