Jalen Brunson Denies Financial Advisor Rumors After Knicks

Jalen Brunson has publicly questioned a viral rumor about his finances, sparking a wave of online reactions. The New York Knicks star and reigning NBA Finals MVP responded on Friday, August 28, 2026, to a claim that he and teammates Josh Hart and Mikal Bridges use former Villanova teammate Matt Kennedy as their financial advisor at Goldman Sachs.

Brunson Questions Source of Goldman Sachs Report

A finance newsletter with 250,000 readers claimed on Friday that Matt Kennedy had become the financial advisor for Brunson, Hart, and Bridges. Brunson responded directly on social media, writing, "Matt is my guy, but I need your sources." His comment fueled immediate jokes and theories from fans across the NBA community. One fan referenced ESPN reporter Pablo Torre, writing, "Pablo (Torre) looking into this right now." While a Bloomberg report noted Goldman Sachs counts some Knicks champions as clients, Kennedy himself declined to comment on the specific relationships.

A $300 Billion Firm's Villanova Connection

The underlying story involves Goldman Sachs and its massive wealth management business, valued at over $300 billion. Matt Kennedy, a former walk-on guard at Villanova, works as a financial adviser at the firm's Manhattan office. Kennedy won the NCAA Elite 90 Award at the 2018 Final Four for having the highest GPA, a 3.897 as a finance major. His Villanova ties run deep. He served as the best man at Mikal Bridges's wedding last year and has had Knicks game tickets for years.

Dirk Nowitzki Admits He Doubted Brunson's Star Potential

Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki recently admitted he was skeptical of Brunson when the guard left for New York in 2022. "I was a bit worried to see him arrive in that media environment," Nowitzki said in an interview. He doubted the reserved Brunson could become a franchise player in a major market. Nowitzki now says Brunson's evolution has been "incredible." He praised Brunson for carrying the Knicks to their first title in 53 years and earning Finals MVP honors, a ceiling the Hall of Famer did not foresee.

Brunson Hints at Retirement Timeline on 30th Birthday

Celebrating his 30th birthday on Monday, August 31, Brunson gave a rare glimpse into his long-term thinking. In an interview with the New York Post's Stefan Bondy, Brunson suggested he won't play until he's completely worn out. "I don't think I'll go until the wheels fall off," Brunson said. He emphasized the importance of self-awareness as he ages, wanting to understand when his role should change. The point guard is at the peak of his career after a championship season, but his comments show foresight about his eventual exit from the game.

• Brunson directly challenged the source of a viral rumor about his financial advisor.
• Former teammate Matt Kennedy works for Goldman Sachs' $300+ billion wealth management arm.
• Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki admitted he underestimated Brunson's ability to lead the Knicks.
• On turning 30, Brunson indicated he plans to retire before his skills completely deteriorate.