Pistons fans had a strong message for Jalen Brunson as he entered Game 6 on Thursday night. However, Brunson had an even bigger response for them. Just before the game, a billboard appeared in metro Detroit, calling him a “mother flopper.” This was part of a campaign by an anonymous donor to poke fun at the Knicks star. The billboard was meant to get under Brunson’s skin, but he had the last laugh.
Late in the fourth quarter of the game, with the Knicks trailing, Brunson hit a crucial three-pointer that clinched the series for New York, winning 116-113 and sending them to the next round of the playoffs. He finished the game with an impressive 40 points, proving that he could rise above the taunts.
The atmosphere in Detroit was charged. Pistons fans brought their own props to the game, chanting “flopper” as Brunson handled the ball. The insults didn’t stop there; they had previously directed vulgar chants at him in earlier games. Even Jalen Duren, a Pistons player, got in on the action, telling Brunson during Game 5, “You flopping motherf–ker.”
Despite the hostility, Brunson remained unfazed. He acknowledged the criticism, saying it’s part of the game. He emphasized his skill in using footwork and body angles to draw fouls, which some fans interpreted as flopping. “When you have guys who are 6-foot-7, 6-foot-8, freak athletes, they’re gonna use that to their advantage,” he said.
Brunson’s ability to handle the pressure and perform under fire has been a key factor for the Knicks. With this victory, they now look ahead to their next challenge against the Boston Celtics. The series has been intense, and Brunson’s resilience will be crucial as they continue their playoff journey.
