"We weren't actually roommates freshman year," Hart revealed on the first episode of their podcast, "The Roommates Show." "But we spent a lot of time together. We were always hanging out, in the dorms, studying together, late nights before games."
Their on-court chemistry blossomed alongside their friendship. Brunson, the crafty point guard, and Hart, the defensive menace with a developing offensive game, became key cogs in Coach Jay Wright's Villanova machine. They were instrumental in the Wildcats' run to the 2016 National Championship, with Brunson hitting a clutch three-pointer in the final seconds to seal the victory.
"We just had a connection," Brunson said in an interview. "We knew where each other wanted to be on the court. We pushed each other to be better every day, both on and off the court."
Their senior year saw them return to the NCAA tournament, this time falling short in the championship game. Despite the heartbreaking loss, their collegiate careers were undeniably successful. Brunson, a National Champion and First-Team All-American, declared for the NBA Draft in 2018. Hart, a Big East Player of the Year, followed suit a year later.
The NBA Draft separated the duo. Brunson landed with the Dallas Mavericks, while Hart was selected by the New Orleans Pelicans. While they weren't teammates, the competitive spirit remained.
"We always kept in touch," Hart said. "We'd text each other after games, trash talk a little bit. We always wanted to see each other succeed, but there was definitely a competitive fire there too."
Brunson carved out a role as a dependable backup guard for the Mavericks, learning under the tutelage of Luka Doncic. Hart bounced around a bit, playing for the Pelicans, Los Angeles Lakers, and Portland Trail Blazers. He established himself as a defensive stopper with a knack for hustle plays.
Despite the physical distance, their friendship remained strong. Social media posts showed them vacationing together, and they never missed an opportunity to support each other's teams from afar.
The basketball world took notice when a February 2023 trade deadline deal brought Josh Hart to the New York Knicks. Finally, Brunson and Hart were teammates again, this time in the Big Apple.
"It was a dream come true," Brunson admitted. "To play alongside my best friend in a city like New York, it doesn't get much better than that."
The reunion wasn't just a sentimental one. On the court, the chemistry they honed at Villanova translated seamlessly to the NBA. Brunson, now the Knicks' starting point guard, thrived with Hart's defensive intensity creating easy scoring opportunities.
"Having Josh out there makes my job a lot easier," Brunson said. "He takes on the toughest defensive assignments, and he always seems to be in the right spot. It's like having another coach on the court."
"The Roommates Show" quickly became a hit among basketball fans. The podcast offered a unique perspective, with Brunson and Hart providing honest takes on NBA life, hilarious anecdotes from their college days, and insightful basketball analysis.
Their genuine friendship shines through in every episode. They playfully jab at each other, recount embarrassing stories (like the time Josh accidentally swung a weight at Jalen's head in the gym!), and share inside jokes that only true best friends would understand.
But it's not all lighthearted fun. Brunson and Hart also delve into serious topics like the challenges of playing professional basketball, the pressure of performing in a major market like New York, and the importance of mental health in sports.
The show features a variety of guests, from NBA teammates and coaches to celebrities and media personalities. Recent episodes have seen appearances by Knicks legend Patrick Ewing, comedian Kevin Hart (no relation to Josh!), and WNBA star Sabrina Ionescu.
"The Roommates Show" isn't just about basketball. Brunson and Hart discuss their favorite movies, music, and video games, offering a glimpse into their personalities beyond the court. This well-rounded approach has attracted a diverse audience, making the show a success not just for NBA fans but for anyone who enjoys a good laugh and insightful conversation.
Here are some of the reasons why "The Roommates Show" has become so popular:
Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart's story is more than just basketball. It's a testament to the power of friendship. Their bond, forged in the dorms of Villanova, has only grown stronger over time. They push each other to be better on the court and support each other off it.
Their friendship also serves as an inspiration to young athletes. It shows that competition and camaraderie can coexist, and that having a strong support system can be a key ingredient for success.
The future is bright for Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart. Both are talented players with bright futures in the NBA. But beyond their individual achievements, their enduring friendship is what truly sets them apart. And with "The Roommates Show" continuing to gain traction, they're sure to entertain and inspire fans for years to come.
