Knicks’ Jalen Brunson fades in 3-point contest after hot start: ‘Oops’

SAN FRANCISCO — Jalen Brunson isn’t ruling out a return to the 3-point compeтιтion after losing in his second try.

The Knicks guard didn’t get past the first round Saturday after rushing through his final rack as time was running low.

He finished with 18 points, and Miami’s Tyler Herro emerged as a first-time champion by beating Golden State’s Buddy Hield in the final.

“Started off H๏τ. I felt great. And then. Oops,” Brunson said. “I feel like I rushed the last rack. You could practice all you want, but once you get out there it’s a tad different.”

Brunson, who is shooting 40 percent this season from beyond the arc, was trying to become the first Knick and first lefty to win the compeтιтion. He might try again.

“Maybe. I don’t know,” said Brunson, who joined Trent Tucker as the only Knicks to compete in two 3-point contests. “I’ll leave that door open.”

In real games, Brunson’s efficiency has steadily improved since shooting just 34.8 percent as a rookie on treys.

“There’s no secret. I go into every summer thinking, ‘How can I become the most consistent and complete player, the most efficient player I can be?’ ” Brunson said. “Just working on my sH๏τ and making sure it’s as comfortable as possible.”

The 3-point compeтιтion finish notwithstanding, Brunson is enjoying his second All-Star experience after his debut last year in Indiana.

“It’s been good. Last year being the first one and not really knowing what to expect. This time, I think I’m actually kind of enjoying it,” he said. “So it’s been fun having my family here. That’s the best part about.”