Rick Brunson’s Basketball Legacy Fuels Knicks’ Playoff Aspirations

SALEM, Mass. — In the summer of 1987, basketball fans in Salem were abuzz about a 15-year-old talent named Rick Brunson. At Salem High School, he showcased his impressive skills, drawing attention from players and coaches alike.

Brunson dominated the court, known for his ability to navigate through double-teams, secure rebounds, and dish out assists. He often competed in local men’s league games at Forest River Park, where former Harvard assistant coach Tom Thibodeau wished to recruit him. Thibodeau recalled, “His story is he used to kill me. My story is that I used to kill him. Ain’t no footage, so we’re never going to get to the truth.”

Now, their rivalry has transformed into a collaboration that threatens the Boston Celtics in the playoffs. Rick Brunson, a former NBA player and father of Knicks star Jalen Brunson, has served as Thibodeau’s trusted assistant coach with multiple teams. The Knicks currently lead their Eastern Conference series against the Celtics, 2-1.

“I don’t think anyone remembers me as a former player,” Rick Brunson said. “They remember me as Jalen’s dad.” However, to locals who watched him play, his legacy as a basketball superstar remains intact.

The Veterans Memorial Fieldhouse at Salem High still resembles its former glory, where Brunson led his team to an incredible 89-8 record during his high school career, capturing four Northeastern Conference titles. He was instrumental in winning the Division 2 state title in 1990, marking Salem’s first championship since 1926.

Coaching at Salem High, Tom Doyle reflected on Brunson’s unmatched work ethic: “He ate, drank, and slept basketball. Nobody outworked him.” Brunson’s commitment paid off as he left Salem with a record 1,780 points, despite missing significant time due to injuries.

Both Brunson and Thibodeau, now entrenched in their respective coaching roles, have carried their competitive spirit into the current playoff series. Thibodeau’s defensive strategies, once honed on the same streets where Brunson practiced day and night, are now pivotal in his coaching philosophy.

The Knicks face a pivotal Game 4 against the Celtics on Monday. Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau said, “The playoffs are going to challenge you in a lot of different ways. You get knocked down, you’ve got to get back up and keep fighting.”

Overall, both the Knicks and the Celtics are aware of the stakes involved in this playoff series. As the competition intensifies, Rick Brunson’s legacy continues to inspire his son and the Knicks as they strive for success.