Jalen Brunson Attends WWE Event: What’s Next for Knicks Star at Roman Reigns’ Invitation?

Jalen Brunson will step into WWE’s Saturday Night’s Main Event on July 18 after accepting Roman Reigns’ invitation, marking his latest crossover from NBA stardom to wrestling’s biggest stage. The New York Knicks guard, who just led his team to its first championship since 1973, will return to Madison Square Garden-but this time as a WWE guest, not a basketball player.**

Why did Jalen Brunson accept Roman Reigns’ invitation?

The offer came directly from Reigns, the WWE’s top draw, via social media. Brunson’s response hinted at mutual respect, given his long-standing admiration for the Tribal Chief. Earlier this year, he called Reigns’ WrestleMania victory over CM Punk "very exciting" and even joked about a pregame handshake ritual with a Knicks trainer. "We acknowledge him before every game," Brunson said in April, revealing his fandom’s depth.

Is this Brunson’s first WWE tie?

No. In June 2024, he became an accidental storyline participant when he stormed the ring at Madison Square Garden during a WWE event featuring Logan Paul and Tyrese Haliburton. Paul, feuding with LA Knight, signaled Haliburton for brass knuckles-until Brunson hopped the barricade to confront him. The Knicks guard later entered the ring with a steel chair, though no fight broke out. Fans immediately clamored for a WWE match between Brunson and Haliburton.

What’s the Knicks’ connection to WWE right now?

The crossover isn’t just Brunson’s doing. WWE wrestler Danhausen’s 2026 playoff curse on the Knicks-followed by a fan-funded "uncursing" cameo-sparked a bizarre but effective playoff run. New York won 13 straight playoff games before losing Game 3 of the NBA Finals to the San Antonio Spurs. The team rebounded to claim its first title in 53 years, with Brunson as a key leader. WWE’s Saturday Night’s Main Event often features fan-friendly moments, so Brunson’s appearance could range from a crowd cheer to an impromptu ring entrance.

When and where is the event?

The show airs exclusively on Peacock at 8 p.m. ET on Saturday, July 18, with Madison Square Garden hosting the live crowd. WWE’s Saturday Night events blend wrestling action with celebrity appearances, and Brunson’s Knicks fame ensures he’ll draw attention. Whether he stays in the audience or joins the fun remains the question-one that could make for viral moments either way.

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