New York Knicks guard **Jalen Brunson** has been named the recipient of the **Jerry West Trophy** as the **2024–25 Kia NBA Clutch Player of the Year**, solidifying his status as one of the league’s premier late-game performers. 
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### 🏆 What Is the Jerry West Trophy?
The NBA introduced the Clutch Player of the Year award in the 2022–23 season to honor the player who best delivers for his team in high-pressure moments—specifically, the final five minutes of games with a margin of five points or fewer. The award is named after **Jerry West**, the Hall of Fame guard famously nicknamed “Mr. Clutch” for his legendary late-game heroics with the Los Angeles Lakers. ([AP News][1], [Wikipedia][2])
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### 📊 Brunson’s Clutch-Time Dominance
Brunson’s performance in clutch situations during the 2024–25 regular season was nothing short of exceptional:
* **5.6 points per game** in clutch time—**highest in the NBA**
* **52 made field goals** in clutch situations—**league leader**
* **156 total clutch points**—**second overall**
* **28 clutch assists**—**third in the league**
* **51.5% field goal percentage** and **84.0% free throw percentage** in clutch scenarios
* Led the Knicks to a **17–11 record** in clutch games([Reuters][3])
Brunson’s ability to consistently perform under pressure was a key factor in the Knicks’ success throughout the season. 
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### 🗳️ Award Voting and Recognition
The Clutch Player of the Year award is determined by a panel of 100 global NBA writers and broadcasters, following nominations from league head coaches. Brunson received **70 of 100 first-place votes**, outpacing Denver’s **Nikola Jokić** and Minnesota’s **Anthony Edwards**, who finished second and third, respectively. ([AP News][1])
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### 🏀 Impact on the Knicks’ Season
Brunson’s clutch performances were instrumental in the Knicks’ deep playoff run, helping the team reach the **Eastern Conference Finals** for the first time since 2000. His leadership and late-game heroics have been pivotal in the team’s postseason success. ([The Times of India][4])
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### 🧠 Mental Toughness and Leadership
Brunson’s mental fortitude has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s all-time greats. Former NBA star **Gilbert Arenas** likened Brunson’s mindset to that of **Kobe Bryant**, highlighting his composure and effectiveness in clutch situations. ([The Times of India][5])
Brunson himself remains focused on the team’s goals, emphasizing the importance of collective success over individual accolades. His leadership and discipline have been lauded by teammates and coaches alike. ([New York Post][6])
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### 🏁 Final Thoughts
Jalen Brunson’s recognition as the 2024–25 Kia NBA Clutch Player of the Year underscores his emergence as one of the league’s most reliable and impactful players in high-pressure situations. His performance has not only elevated his own standing but has also been a driving force behind the New York Knicks’ resurgence as a formidable team in the NBA.
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