OG Anunoby is entering another important season with the New York Knicks, and his latest comments show just how much respect he has for head coach Mike Brown.
After helping New York win its first NBA championship since 1973, Anunoby believes Brown is finally receiving the recognition he deserves.
OG Anunoby Praises Knicks Coach Mike Brown
Anunoby had strong words for Brown during Knicks training camp, describing his head coach as a special coach and emphasizing that Brown’s ability was evident long before New York won the championship.
“When you win, you get more recognition,” Anunoby said, explaining why Brown has received increased attention following the Knicks’ title run.
Brown took over the Knicks in July 2025 after the organization moved on from Tom Thibodeau. The decision immediately paid off as New York finished the regular season with a 53-29 record before dominating the playoffs.
The Knicks went 16-3 in the postseason and defeated the San Antonio Spurs in five games in the NBA Finals to capture the franchise’s first championship in more than five decades.
Anunoby Was Crucial to New York’s Championship
While Jalen Brunson earned Finals MVP honors, Anunoby was one of the Knicks’ most important two-way players throughout the championship season.
He averaged 16.7 points, 5.2 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game during the regular season and earned All-Defensive Second Team recognition.
His offensive production increased considerably in the playoffs. Anunoby averaged 20.1 points per game and shot 48.9% from three-point range, giving New York another major scoring option alongside Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns.
His defensive versatility also remains one of his biggest strengths. Anunoby can defend multiple positions without demanding a large offensive role, making him an ideal fit next to New York’s other stars.
OG Anunoby’s Future Could Depend on Karl-Anthony Towns
Although Anunoby is focused on the upcoming season, his long-term future with the Knicks could become one of the organization’s biggest decisions.
Anunoby will be eligible for a four-year extension next summer that could reportedly be worth as much as a projected $286.5 million. His value is particularly high because of his ability to impact games without needing the ball constantly.
That creates an interesting situation for New York because Karl-Anthony Towns is also seeking a new contract.
The Knicks are reportedly trying to maintain financial flexibility while keeping their championship core together. If Towns receives a massive extension, the salary-cap pressure could eventually force New York to make a difficult decision involving Anunoby.
Why Anunoby Has Significant Leverage
Anunoby’s market value is not difficult to understand.
He is a proven championship-level defender, can guard multiple positions and has become a reliable three-point shooter. Because he can contribute without dominating possessions, virtually any contender could find a role for him.
The Knicks already demonstrated how highly they value him when they re-signed him in 2024 on a five-year contract worth $212 million.
That previous deal also gave New York additional control over his future, but another major contract decision is approaching.
If Anunoby continues producing at his championship-playoff level, he could have significant leverage when extension discussions begin.
Knicks Face a Major Financial Balancing Act
New York’s challenge is keeping enough of its championship roster together without crossing the NBA’s restrictive second apron.
Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, Anunoby and Towns could command enormous portions of the team’s future payroll. Josh Hart and Miles McBride also have their own financial considerations.
That means the Knicks may eventually have to decide which pieces of their championship core are absolutely essential.
Brunson is widely viewed as the centerpiece, while Hart and Bridges could potentially remain more affordable. That puts additional attention on the relationship between Towns and Anunoby.
If Towns demands a contract near the top of his market, New York could have significantly less room to retain Anunoby at the price he may command.
Mike Brown and the Knicks Begin Their Title Defense
For now, Anunoby’s focus remains on basketball rather than contract negotiations.
The Knicks enter the new season as defending NBA champions, meaning expectations will be considerably higher. Brown must keep the group motivated while opposing teams attempt to knock New York from the top of the Eastern Conference.
Anunoby’s continued development will be particularly important.
His combination of perimeter shooting, defense and efficient scoring gives Brown tactical flexibility, while his willingness to play an important role without dominating the offense makes him a natural fit alongside Brunson and Towns.
Anunoby’s praise for Brown also highlights the level of confidence inside the Knicks locker room.
The championship proved that Brown’s system could work at the highest level. Now, the challenge is proving New York can remain among the NBA’s elite while navigating difficult roster and salary decisions.
For the Knicks, OG Anunoby’s future could ultimately become one of the biggest storylines surrounding their attempt to build a championship dynasty.
Leave a Reply