Villanova Knicks: Jalen Brunson Lands On Top 10 NBA Players List

ESPN released their annual ranking of the top players in the NBA ahead of the 2026 season, and Villanova legend Jalen Brunson checked in at the No. 6 spot. That’s a four spot climb from the previous season, when he started at No. 10 after a summer that saw him win the league’s clutch player of the year award.

The 2025-26 campaign saw Brunson’s trophy case grow further, as he won an NBA Cup Championship, an NBA Championship and the respective MVP awards for both competitions. He also earned the ESPY award for the league’s top player… a vote likely heavily influenced by the rabid fanbase he and the New York Knicks enjoy.

Philadelphia native Jalen Duren checked in at No. 33 on the top 100 list following a breakout season for the Detroit Pistons; fellow Villanova legends Josh Hart (No. 89) and Mikal Bridges (No. 61) also made their way onto the list, while Collin Gillespie is a solid pick to sneak his way on next year after inking an eight-figure contract with the Phoenix Suns.

The Villanova Knicks will begin their title defense at home on Tuesday, Oct. 20, receiving their championship rings as they play host to the Philadelphia 76ers’ new-look lineup featuring LeBron James and Jaylen Brown.