Jalen Brunson hosts Saturday Night Live season 52 premiere

New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson hosted the Season 52 premiere of Saturday Night Live, following his recent NBA championship victory. Brunson, the fifth NBA player to host the program, was joined during his opening monologue by Knicks teammates Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Josh Hart. The teammates participated in a comedic segment where they asked Brunson questions regarding his career and team dynamics.

The episode featured several sketches, including a High School Musical parody titled “High School Musical the New Generation” and an office-themed sketch. The musical guest for the premiere was the pop group Katseye.

While the episode received praise for its energy and team chemistry, some viewers and critics offered mixed reviews regarding Brunson’s comedic delivery and the writing of certain sketches. One segment involving a support group for men whose partners attended a Chris Brown and Usher concert drew specific criticism from viewers for its content.