New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson will host the season premiere of Saturday Night Live on September 26, marking his first time as the show’s host. The k-pop girl group Katseye will serve as the musical guest for the episode, which kicks off the 52nd season of the long-running NBC comedy series.
Brunson, who led the Knicks to their first NBA championship in 53 years this past June, becomes the fifth NBA player to host SNL, joining a list that includes Charles Barkley, Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Bill Russell. He follows in the footsteps of fellow athletes Travis Kelce (2023) and Derek Jeter and Eli Manning (New York sports legends) who have previously hosted the show.
The season premiere will air on September 26 at 11:30 p.m. ET/PT on NBC. Brunson’s hosting debut follows the Knicks’ historic championship run, which included a 29-point comeback in Game 4 of the NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs—the largest comeback in NBA Finals history.
Upcoming Hosts and Musical Guests
The SNL lineup for the first four weeks of the season has been announced, with each host bringing a unique perspective to the show:
- September 26: Jalen Brunson (host) and Katseye (musical guest)
- October 3: Dakota Johnson (host) and Turnstile (musical guest)
- October 10: Shane Gillis (host, third time) and Rosalía (musical guest, second appearance)
- October 24: Inde Navarrette (host) and The War and Treaty (musical guest)
The show will take a two-week break after the October 10 episode before returning on October 24 for Navarrette’s hosting debut. Navarrette, known for her breakout role in the horror-thriller Obsession, will be the first host of the season to appear in the Halloween-themed episode.
Brunson’s Rise to Prominence
Brunson’s selection as SNL host follows a career-defining postseason in which he averaged 28.4 points per game, including a 45-point performance in Game 5 of the NBA Finals. His leadership was pivotal in the Knicks’ championship run, particularly during a 22-point comeback in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers and the historic 29-point deficit overcome in the NBA Finals.
Since joining the Knicks in 2022, Brunson has established himself as one of the league’s top guards, averaging 26.3 points and 6.8 assists per game. His clutch performances and composed demeanor on the court have earned him widespread recognition, culminating in his first NBA title.
Athletes and Entertainers on SNL
Brunson joins a long tradition of athletes and entertainers who have hosted Saturday Night Live, reflecting the show’s blend of humor and star power. Recent sports figures to host include Travis Kelce (2023), Charles Barkley (2019), and LeBron James (2007, 2008). The show has also featured musicians, actors, and comedians in its rotating lineup of hosts.
Brunson’s appearance comes after his July appearance at WWE’s Saturday Night Main Event at Madison Square Garden, where he walked out alongside Roman Reigns during a segment with Seth Rollins and Tyrese Haliburton. His transition from professional sports to entertainment underscores the growing crossover between athletics and pop culture.
What’s Next for the Knicks and Brunson
The Knicks will begin their 2026-27 regular season with a game against the Philadelphia 76ers on October 20, broadcast on NBC. Brunson’s hosting of SNL follows a summer of high-profile appearances, including his championship celebration and engagement with the WWE.
Fans can expect Brunson to bring his signature stoicism and humor to the SNL stage, offering a glimpse into his personality beyond basketball. His hosting debut will be closely watched as he steps into the world of late-night comedy for the first time.