Petition calls for renaming of the Hudson River

NEW YORK―Native American’s called it the Mahicantuck. European explorers referred to it as Rivière Montagnes, Noort River, Big River and even Mauritius River. And around 1664, the name Hudson River finally stuck.

Now, a Change.org petition signed by nearly 10,000 people seeks to rename the monumental waterway in honor of New York Knicks’ point guard Jalen Brunson.

“In recognition of his contributions and the joy he brings to New York, I propose we rename the Hudson River to The Brunson River,” wrote Toby Bucsescu, CEO of fantasy sports app company Blitz:Draft, who started the online appeal.

“As a lifelong New York Knicks fan, I have been through the highs and lows of our beloved team. But in all my years, I have never seen this city so united, so jubilant, as it is now—thanks to one incredible player: Jalen Brunson,” Bucsescu wrote.

Last month, Brunson led the New York Knicks to their first NBA Championship since 1973 during a historic 2026 playoff run. He scored 539 points during the 2026 NBA Playoffs, including 45 points in the final game when the Knicks shut out the San Antonio Spurs, 94 to 90.

“His exceptional talent and leadership have not only brought renewed hope to the Knicks but have also brought New Yorkers together in a way that we haven't seen in decades,” Bucsescu noted.

“The Hudson River runs through the heart of our city, just as Brunson runs through the veins of our team. Renaming it The Brunson River would be symbolic of the passion he inspires and the legacy he is building right here in New York City,” he added.

Stretching from the Adirondacks to New York City, the Hudson River runs 306 miles. Considered one of the most important waterways in American history, it was named after British explorer Henry Hudson, who sailed it in 1609.

And while it is unlikely that Bucsescu’s idea will come to fruition, the petition has received 9,564 signatures.