Knicks Star Jalen Brunson Joins Mariska Hargitay in Emmys Opening

New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson made a surprise appearance in a pretaped segment for the opening of the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards on Monday night, joining host and friend Mariska Hargitay in a musical number. The segment, which kicked off the ceremony broadcast on NBC, featured Brunson and Hargitay in a parody song titled "I Love TV Screens," based on Joan Jett's "I Love Rock 'n' Roll." In the pre-recorded clip, Brunson was shown steaming his Knicks jersey while Hargitay steamed her dress, with the two exchanging dialogue about the pressure of the night. The segment then transitioned to a live performance with Hargitay and dancers. The appearance highlighted the well-publicized friendship between the NBA champion and the "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" star, who is a prominent fan of the New York Knicks. Hargitay's fandom became a notable subplot during the Knicks' championship run last season. She was frequently courtside at Madison Square Garden and was famously shown hugging Brunson after the team overcame a 29-point deficit in Game 4 of the NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs.