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In true Frank Sinatra fashion, Jalen Brunson was the "main event," the one everyone watched with bated breath, eager to see what he'd do next. Their popularity is comparable, especially after Brunson's performance in Game 5 of the Finals. The Knicks' captain dropped an unbelievable 45 points, nearly half of what the blue-clad players scored in what proved to be the decisive NBA Finals game.

If Brunson ever buys a round in New York, it can only mean the bar owner is a Brooklyn Nets fan – if such fans even exist in the Big Apple. This guy, who was called too short, too slow, and too weak, has disproven absolutely everything. From the moment he was drafted, he carried a heavy burden. He was a second-round pick, underestimated by all, yet he showed in Dallas that he could be something special.

From the moment he arrived in New York, he became the beloved son of the five boroughs. No one is as adored as the Knicks' captain; again, we're back to Sinatra. His performances and character have captured the hearts of everyone at Madison Square Garden, and years of pain have finally paid off.

His masterpiece of 45 points against the San Antonio Spurs showed all his critics exactly who and what this young man is. After every game, reporters would interview him on the court, and he always said, "There's always the next game." Not anymore, Jalen. The tears of joy revealed several things, primarily relief. New York is a city where success is expected and must be delivered.

For 53 long years, the NBA's most passionate fans hadn't seen a title, and this young man delivered it into their hands. The celebrations will go deep into the night, and deservedly so. If by some chance he wins another title and further adds to his legend, a statue will be a small tribute. What statue? Perhaps the Garden will be renamed in his honor, and even that might not be enough...

VIDEO: Brunson Leads Knicks to Victory