Jalen Brunson has been released.
The Knicks star headed toward the officials in the third quarter of Game 5 against the Spurs in heated protest of another non-call against San Antonio phenom Victor Wimpanyama.
Brunson appeared to have a legitimate beef after Wimbanyama evaded a drop zone foul on a three-point attempt with 5:35 remaining in the third quarter, during which the Knicks guard fell on his foot and appeared to sprain his ankle.
Brunson sat on the parquet for a moment while Knicks fumed at the lack of contact.
After a whistle at the other end of the floor — Devin Vassell hit a 3-pointer to extend the Spurs’ lead to 62-53 — Brunson immediately went to referee Tyler Ford.
“There’s no doubt he’s taking his space in the final, that should be glaring,” ESPN analyst Tim Legler said on the broadcast.
As coach Mike Brown made his case to officials at half court, Knicks veteran Jose Alvarado turned Brunson away.
Wimpanyama, one of the rising faces of the NBA and a budding villain for the Knicks, is one foul point away from being suspended, as his play was heavily scrutinized by fans and analysts alike during the NBA Finals series.