Jalen Brunson’s US Open Experience: Ben Shelton Fanboying & Trying to Avoid Josh Hart

Jalen Brunson was present for the US Open Semifinals between Frances Tiafoe and Ben Shelton.

Jalen Brunson’s US Open Experience: Ben Shelton Fanboying & Trying to Avoid Josh Hart

Ali Marks and Jalen Brunson (Image credits - Yahoo Sports)

At the moment, there may be no bigger name than Jalen Brunson in New York. New York Knicks fans are known for being one of the most passionate and largest fanbases in the NBA, and they have done a fine job putting Brunson on a pedestal after his recent achievements.

Brunson sent the whole city into a frenzy after he led the Knicks to a championship last season. It may have been their third championship overall, but it was definitely the most meaningful one as it was their first title since 1973.

The Knicks guard was in attendance on Friday night for the US Open men’s semifinals between Frances Tiafoe and Ben Shelton. Considering the Grand Slam is held in New York, Brunson was in the spotlight and caught everyone’s attention.

After winning his match in four sets, Shelton name-dropped Brunson in his post-match interview.

It’s not easy playing here on Arthur Ashe. You’re playing in front of all your favorite athletes and movie stars. So to be able to keep your head down and focus for over three hours is not an easy task. I keep looking at the screen and ‘Oh shoot, Jalen Brunson’s here.’

Ben Shelton in his post-match interview

While Brunson is not a fan of the title “King of New York”, Ben Shelton did not miss his presence and was even left starstruck, despite playing in a high-octane match in front of thousands of people. Shelton booked his place in his first-ever Grand Slam final after beating Tiafoe 4-6, 6-3, 6-3, 7-5 at Arthur Ashe.

Brunson attended the event with his wife and was seen in the stands sitting next to Knicks superfan Ben Stiller. Shelton’s comments on seeing Brunson received a loud cheer from the crowd. The 30-year-old has united the city like never seen before after their championship run.

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Josh Hart tried to get Jalen Brunson’s attention on the US Open blue carpet

Several big names were seen attending the match on Friday. Another Knicks player in attendance was Josh Hart. The Knicks forward is a fan of multiple sports, and tennis is one of them.

Shannon Hart, Josh Hart, Jalen Brunson and Ali Marks
Shannon Hart, Josh Hart, Jalen Brunson and Ali Marks (Image credits – HITC)

Before the semifinal, Brunson was seen entering the venue with his wife, Ali Marks, and even posing for photos. Soon after, Hart stepped onto the US Open blue carpet with his wife, Shannon.

Hart spotted Brunson during the event and called out to his teammate. Brunson’s reaction was a hilarious one and he repeatedly replied, “No no no. No no”.

Brunson and Hart share a very close relationship with each other. They became good friends as teammates in college. Brunson’s reaction was a funny one, although it did not stop the group from eventually getting a picture.

Jalen Brunson and Ben Shelton linked up after the match

The win on Friday was the biggest win of Shelton’s career. While the match did not go to the final set like his previous match against Carlos Alcaraz, Shelton admitted post-match that it was a tough win as he had to play in front of the likes of Jalen Brunson.

After his win, the two stars met backstage and chatted. Shelton congratulated Brunson for his championship win three months ago.

Congrats on the chip… I know it’s been a while, but it’s one of the coolest things in sports.

Brunson thanked Shelton and wished him luck for the US Open final on Sunday.

Appreciate it, brother. We’ll be here Sunday, so good luck, brother.

Brunson appears to be having a good time with his family and friends before the 2026-27 campaign gets underway next month. Recently, it was revealed that he will be hosting the season premiere of “Saturday Night Live” later this month. And his conversation with Shelton revealed that Brunson will be seen once again at the Arthur Ashe on Sunday.

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