“I’M STAYING FOREVER!!!”: Jalen Brunson Announces Permanent Contract Deal with New York Knicks Till Retirement After Groundbreaking Agreement with MSG
In a blockbuster announcement that shook the NBA and thrilled fans across the five boroughs, Jalen Brunson declared on Saturday morning what Knicks fans have long hoped to hear: “I’m staying forever.” The All-NBA guard and reigning 2025 MVP has signed a historic lifetime contract with the New York Knicks, a first-of-its-kind deal that ensures he will remain a Knick until the day he hangs up his jersey.
The agreement, reportedly brokered between Brunson, his representation, and Madison Square Garden Sports Corp (MSG), guarantees that Brunson will play his remaining NBA years in a Knicks uniform—alongside an evolving package of player-turned-ambassador responsibilities once his playing days are over.
A Deal Unlike Any Other
While lifetime contracts are common in brand endorsement deals, the NBA has never seen a player ink a “forever” deal directly tied to a team with such sweeping long-term implications. According to league insiders, the agreement includes a max-level extension clause spanning the remainder of Brunson’s active career, with annual evaluations ensuring salary adjustments in line with the league’s top earners.
Following retirement, Brunson is expected to transition into a front office advisory role, player development consultant, and team ambassador—a hybrid model inspired by legends like Dirk Nowitzki in Dallas and Udonis Haslem in Miami, but taken to an entirely new level of commitment.
“This is more than a contract. It’s a vow,” said Brunson at the press conference held at Madison Square Garden, flanked by Knicks President Leon Rose and Head Coach Tom Thibodeau. “The Garden changed my life. New York believed in me when others hesitated. I want to return that love for the rest of my life.”
The MVP Who Reshaped a Franchise
Brunson’s journey with the Knicks has been nothing short of extraordinary. Since arriving in the summer of 2022, he has been the beating heart of a team that’s redefined its culture. His blend of poise, grit, and leadership lifted the Knicks out of mediocrity and transformed them into legitimate contenders. The 2024–25 season was his masterpiece: averaging 29.7 points, 7.4 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game while leading New York to the No. 2 seed in the East, he earned the NBA’s Most Valuable Player award—making him the first Knick since Willis Reed in 1970 to claim the honor.
Brunson’s value has extended far beyond stats. His stoic composure in high-pressure moments, his relentless work ethic, and his ability to galvanize teammates have made him not only the face of the Knicks but arguably the soul of modern New York basketball.
“He’s the most important Knick since Patrick Ewing,” said Walt “Clyde” Frazier during Saturday’s Knicks broadcast. “Maybe the most beloved since Clyde and Willis. This guy is all heart. He bleeds orange and blue.”
Leon Rose’s Masterstroke
This lifetime deal also marks a major win for Knicks President Leon Rose, who originally signed Brunson from the Dallas Mavericks in 2022 amid skepticism and accusations of nepotism—due to Rose’s long-standing relationship with the Brunson family.
Those doubts vanished quickly. Brunson not only exceeded expectations—he obliterated them. Rose’s decision to hand him the keys has paid off with three consecutive playoff appearances, an MVP, and now the strongest declaration of loyalty the franchise has seen in decades.
“This isn’t just about keeping a star,” said Rose. “This is about continuing a partnership built on trust, shared goals, and mutual respect. Jalen represents everything the Knicks stand for. Today is a proud day for all of us.”
What This Means for the Knicks
From a team-building standpoint, the Knicks now have a central figure to build around for the long haul. Brunson’s long-term commitment gives New York a stable foundation that’s eluded them since the days of Ewing. It also sends a clear message to potential free agents and young players: the Knicks are serious, stable, and poised for a dynastic era.
With Brunson locked in, the front office can focus on adding the right pieces around him. Rumors are already swirling that All-Star forward Mikal Bridges—one of Brunson’s close friends from Villanova—is a trade target. Add that to the development of RJ Barrett, Josh Hart, and Immanuel Quickley (if re-signed), and the Knicks look built to contend well into the 2030s.
A New York Legend in the Making
Off the court, Brunson’s impact is equally significant. He’s become a fixture in the community, supporting youth basketball clinics, charity events, and educational initiatives throughout the city. His humility, approachability, and authentic love for New York have made him not just a basketball hero, but a local icon.
“Jalen could run for mayor and win tomorrow,” joked comedian and die-hard Knicks fan Jerry Seinfeld. “He’s got that thing—you just believe in him.”
MSG has reportedly begun planning a number of long-term activations around Brunson’s presence, including a permanent installation in the Garden honoring his legacy, and a documentary film in development chronicling his Knicks journey.
NBA Reaction: Mixed Emotions, Massive Respect
Across the league, the announcement sparked waves of praise and envy. Players, coaches, and fans reacted on social media, with many congratulating Brunson on forging his own path in a league increasingly defined by player movement and short-term stints.
“Real loyalty is rare in our league,” tweeted Warriors star Stephen Curry. “Mad respect to JB for choosing legacy over everything.”
Former teammate Luka Dončić posted a series of clapping emojis and a photo of him and Brunson sharing a laugh during their Mavericks days with the caption: “Deserved. Always knew you were built different.”
Of course, not everyone celebrated the news. A few small-market GMs privately expressed concern over the precedent a “lifetime” contract might set—potentially giving large-market franchises an even greater edge in retaining star talent long-term.
But in New York, the mood was unshakably euphoric.
The Future Is Brunson
The Knicks have long yearned for a savior—someone who not only brings wins, but pride. Jalen Brunson has become that figure, and now, he’s here to stay. With this lifetime deal, the team has solidified not only its direction but its identity: tough, passionate, loyal, and determined to finish what it started.
“I don’t know what the future holds in terms of championships,” Brunson said. “But I do know this—I’m going to give everything I have, ev
ery day, until I can’t play anymore. This is home. Forever.”