Former NBA player Anthony Tolliver has challenged the popular story that New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson sacrificed over $100 million with his 2024 contract extension. Tolliver claims the real financial difference is much smaller, a debate that surfaces as the reigning champions build momentum with a 130-93 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on May 26, 2026.
Anthony Tolliver addressed Brunson's deal on the “To The Baha” podcast. He acknowledged Brunson left money on the table but insisted the headline figure is misleading. “Jalen Brunson, no disrespect to that situation, but if y'all do the math, looking at the actual math of what he gave up, not even close to 100 million dollars. Not even close,” Tolliver said. “It's more like 15 to 20, which is a lot of money.”
Brunson signed a four-year, $156.5 million extension in July 2024. Waiting a year could have netted a five-year, $269 million contract, a difference of about $113 million in guaranteed money. Tolliver's point hinges on the deal's structure. The shorter contract lets Brunson become eligible for another major payday sooner, potentially recouping the difference.
Regardless of the exact dollar figure, Brunson's decision gave the Knicks critical salary cap flexibility. That room was instrumental in building the roster that won the 2026 NBA championship. Brunson was the engine, earning Finals MVP after leading New York past the San Antonio Spurs in five games.
That financial breathing space remains a key part of the team's construction today. The Knicks are in a strong position, holding a 4-game winning run (WWWWL) as they prepare for the new season.
The team's recent performances show their championship pedigree. The sequence includes a 121-108 win over Cleveland on May 24 and a 109-93 victory on May 22. Before that, they beat the Cavaliers 115-104 on May 20.
The lone loss in this stretch was a 110-96 defeat to the Charlotte Hornets back on April 12. This strong form sets a confident tone for their repeat bid. Brunson's legacy, and the true cost of his contract, is now part of a successful era for the franchise.
