Jalen Brunson’s weekend at NBA All-Star 2025 in San Francisco was a testament to his leadership on and off the court. As the first New York Knicks team captain since 2018, his presence was felt beyond his stellar performance in the game. Jalen made a huge impact at the highly anticipated NBA Technology Summit, where he shared the stage with some of the most influential minds in sports and business.
On Friday morning, Brunson joined an elite panel at the NBA Technology Summit, titled The Leadership Playbook: How to Win in 2025 and Beyond. The panel, moderated by Ernie Johnson, featured esteemed figures such as retired General Marty Dempsey, Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin, UnitedMasters and Translation CEO Steve Stoute, NBA rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama, and WNBA superstar Sabrina Ionescu. Together, they explored the evolving definitions of success in leadership, the role of technology in decision-making, and the challenges of navigating the ever-intensifying media landscape.
Brunson’s insights provided a rare glimpse into his mindset as both a player and a leader. Jalen was asked how he defined success beyond wins and losses and how he stays mentally strong as a leader when there is more noise and opinions. In this exclusive Q&A.
Jalen Brunson’s presence at NBA All-Star 2025 reaffirmed his standing as a leader who transcends the sport. Whether discussing the future of leadership at the Tech Summit or showcasing his skills on the hardwood, he demonstrated the qualities that define not just an elite player, but a true difference-maker in today’s NBA. As the season continues, his words and actions in San Francisco will undoubtedly serve as a blueprint for leadership, resilience, and growth in the ever-evolving landscape of professional basketball.
