So far, 2026 has seen Jalen Brunson dominate the basketball world and claim his throne as the rightful King of New York, shredding all doubts about his on-court abilities or his capacity for leading a team to an NBA championship.
He’s conquered the NBA on its largest stage, but now it’s time to see how he’ll fare on center stage at 30 Rock.
The New York Knicks‘ captain has been officially announced as the host of the premiere for Saturday Night Live’s 52nd season on NBC, returning Sept. 26. Brunson, making his hosting debut, will be accompanied by first-time musical guest Katseye.
Jalen Brunson will become the fifth different NBA player to host the program, joining all-time greats such as Bill Russell (1979), Michael Jordan (1991), Charles Barkley (1993, 2010, 2012, 2018), and LeBron James (2007).
He will also be the first active player to host the program since LeBron.
Other all-time New York sports legends that Brunson will soon join as SNL hosts include Derek Jeter (2001) and Eli Manning (2012).
Once you’ve reached the pinnacle of the sports world in New York City and proven to be a master of your craft, there’s just one more question people need answered: How are your acting skills?
