When you’re raising a future hooper, there’s no playbook—just instincts, experience, and a whole lot of patience. For Rajon Rondo, that challenge hits close to home. As his 13-year-old son starts making noise on the court, the former NBA champion is doing what he always did best: reading the floor, thinking steps ahead, and leaning on the wisdom of those who’ve been there. And one of those people? Rick Brunson—the father of Knicks star Jalen Brunson. Their behind-the-scenes conversations are now coming to light, revealing just how deep the bond between basketball dads runs.
During a recent sit-down on Time Out, former champ Rajon Rondo opened up about something a little more personal—his relationship with his 13-year-old son. Rondo said he’s focused on finding that sweet spot: being both a supportive dad and a tough coach. And when it comes to taking constructive criticism? His son’s been handling it like a pro. No sulking, no drama—just learning and leveling up. And speaking of leveling up, guess who’s front and center in the Rondo household’s film sessions? Jalen Brunson.
It seems that while he has his son following Jalen’s game, he too is following Rick Brunson’s example. “So this, it’s a thin line I’m working on it. I even talk to Brunson’s Daddy, Jalen Brunson’s father and we had spoke a couple conversations about it but just like you said picking other guys’ brain how they do how they teach their son. So for me it’s always a learning process, but we had a great relationship. He (Rondo Jr,) listens most of the time,” the ex NBA player said.
After a nine-year career in the NBA, Rick became a coach for some of the league’s top teams, including the Denver Nuggets. As an assistant coach for the Knicks, it’s fascinating for him to watch Jalen Brunson evolve into one of the league’s best. The Brunson father-son duo has been with the Knicks since 2022, playing a key role in helping the team reach new heights!
Brunson just had the longest absence of his career, missing 15 games due to a sprained ankle. He made a power-packed comeback, just as expected. Shooting 3-for-9 from the field in 34 minutes, he posted 15 points and six assists, helping the Knicks win 112–98 against Phoenix. And he has continued to contribute to the team.
Jan 13, 2025; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) warms up before a game against the Detroit Pistons at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Rondo perhaps wants the same for his son.
Rajon Rondo’s son gets lauded for his tough mentality
The young Rondo also takes lessons from Chris Johnson. And considering some of his latest practice sessions, it seems the young star is on the right track. Even at the age of 13, Rondo Jr. seems to have that winning mentality in him. During the podcast, Johnson revealed that the young star is practicing using only his left hand.
“He tough. He’s smart and this week he even showed me with his ability to only train left hand,” Johnson said. When Dwyane Wade asked about why he was learning to play with his left hand, the trainer revealed that this is because Rondo had fractured his right finger.
Speaking of incredible mentality, Johnson was raving about the young star. He even shared a clip of Rondo Jr.’s practice sessions on social media. “Point guard Reads breakdown @rajonrondo & @pierrerondo_2 … Details: DRIBBLE HANDOFF/ HOLD OFF / 2 FOOT LEFT HAND FLOATERS… Nothing better than a little competition… Like Father, Like son.. Pierre is next up,” Johnson captioned the post. The clip features the young star practicing with his left hand. Incredible right?
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