'Nova Knicks' Go Supernova: Brunson, Hart and DiVincenzo Light Up Postseason

Don't look now, but there's a Cinderella story brewing in the NBA playoffs, and three former Villanova Wildcats are leading the way. Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo, affectionately known as the "Nova Knicks," are making headlines and soaring through the postseason. Despite their modest heights of 6 feet 4 inches or shorter, these three former teammates have the New York Knicks poised for a deep playoff run. Let's take a look at some of the incredible facts and statistics that highlight just how special their run has been.

1. Threes Company: According to the Elias Sports Bureau, Brunson, Hart, and DiVincenzo are the second trio of college teammates to start an NBA playoff game together in the modern draft era. The other trio to do so was Antoine Walker, Tony Delk, and Walter McCarty, who won a playoff series together with the 2003 Boston Celtics. However, the 'Nova Knicks are the first trio to each score 20 points in a playoff game, making them truly unique.
2. One-of-a-Kind: The Nova Knicks separate themselves from other college trios in the NBA by putting up impressive numbers and making a deeper postseason run. With Brunson's stellar play, DiVincenzo's clutch gene, and Hart's relentless effort, the Knicks are a dangerous team that rivals wouldn't want to face.
3. Like Mike: Jalen Brunson has been on another level this postseason, scoring 40 or more points in four consecutive games. He is the first player since Michael Jordan in 1993 to achieve this feat. Additionally, Brunson is the only player in NBA history with four straight games of 40 points and five assists in the playoffs.
4. Ice in His Veins: Brunson's consistency has been crucial for the Knicks, particularly in clutch moments. With 43 points in clutch time this postseason, he has surpassed Paul Pierce and Ben Gordon's record from 2009.
5. Donte's Inferno: DiVincenzo has been a bonafide star for the Knicks, making multiple game-winning threes in the final minute of the fourth quarter. He is among esteemed company, as only Ray Allen and "Big Shot" Bob Horry have made multiple go-ahead threes in a single postseason.
6. Hartbreaker: Josh Hart is single-handedly keeping the Knicks alive with his relentless play. He is averaging 12.4 rebounds per game, second only to Nikola Jokic this postseason. As a tall glass of water, Hart is the heart and soul of the Knicks, playing every single second of every second half this postseason.
7. New York City Marathon: Hart has run 24.1 miles on the court this postseason, topping the NBA leaderboard. If he plays the entire second half of Game 8, he will reach the marathon threshold.
8. Supernova: The 'Nova Knicks are scoring 62% of the Knicks' points this postseason, up from 46% in the regular season. Their offensive explosion has been a key factor in the team's success.

In conclusion, Brunson, Hart, and DiVincenzo are writing a compelling Cinderella story for the Knicks. Their success showcases the value of hard work, teamwork, and determination. While other NBA teams might rely on flashy signings and blockbuster trades, the 'Nova Knicks are proof that sometimes, the best teams are built from within. They have the championship DNA, and let's hope this storyline continues to write for themselves and for the NBA fans.

As the old saying goes, "sometimes, the best things come in small packages." And for the 'Nova Knicks, their run towards an NBA championship is proving to be one of the best things we've seen this season.

Let's sit back, relax, and enjoy the show these three former Wildcats are putting on for the NBA fans. It's sure to be a thrilling ride. Who knows how far they'll go? They just might capture the title and add another shining chapter to their already impressive collegiate championship.