Jalen Marquis Brunson, an American professional basketball player, currently plays as a point guard for the Dallas Mavericks in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Born on August 31, 1996, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Jalen has had quite an impressive basketball journey. From his high school days in Lincolnshire, Illinois, to his time at Villanova University, where he acquired two national championships, Jalen has become a remarkable star both on and off the court. Let’s find out more about Jalen Brunson parents.
The foundation for Jalen’s outstanding career stretches back to his upbringing as the son of former NBA player Rick Brunson and Sandra Brunson, a former volleyball athlete at Temple University. Both of Jalen’s parents played a crucial role in shaping his athletic skills and career choices. Meeting each other at Temple University, where Rick starred on the basketball team while Sandra graced the volleyball court, they established an athletic household that nurtured Jalen and his sister Ali Marks.
Now 25 years old, Jalen Brunson stands at a height of 6 feet 1 inch and boasts a playing weight of around 190 pounds. With the guidance and support of his parents, Jalen has flawlessly transitioned into the NBA, being drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the 2018 NBA Draft. Showcasing his talent at the highest level, he typifies what it means to follow in the footsteps of athletic parents while continuing to build upon their legacy.
Early Life and Family
Jalen Brunson, born on August 31, 1996, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, is the son of former basketball player and coach, Rick Brunson, and Sandra Brunson. The Brunson family later moved to Lincolnshire, Illinois, where Jalen spent most of his childhood. Jalen also has a sister named Erica Brunson. What do we know about Jalen Brunson parents?
Rick Brunson, Jalen’s father, was a talented basketball player who played for Temple University. After his college career, Rick went on to spend nine seasons in the NBA as a professional player. Following his playing career, Rick transitioned into coaching and held various positions as an assistant coach.
Sandra Brunson, Jalen’s mother, was also an athlete during her time at Temple University, where she played volleyball. She later worked for Camping World and Good Sam Club. The couple, Rick and Sandra, first met during their time at Temple University.
Growing up with athletic parents, Jalen was inspired by their dedication, perseverance, and love for their respective sports. This had a significant influence on him, as he followed his father’s footsteps to become a successful basketball player. Jalen’s journey began at the high school level when he played for Cherry Hill East High School in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire, Illinois.
Jalen’s parents, Rick and Sandra, have always valued education and made it a priority for their children. Their emphasis on education, coupled with the athletic inspiration they provided, helped pave the way for Jalen Brunson’s thriving basketball career.
Basketball Career
Jalen Brunson, an American professional basketball player, has had an impressive career in the world of basketball. Born on August 31, 1996, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Brunson first showcased his skills at Stevenson High School in Illinois. As a standout player in high school, he earned accolades like the Illinois Gatorade Player of the Year, Associated Press All-State, and Illinois Mr. Basketball.
Brunson’s talents extended beyond high school as he participated in events like the McDonald’s All-American Boys Game, the Jordan Brand Classic, and the Nike Hoop Summit. His international success included playing for Team USA in competitions such as the FIBA Under-19 World Cup and the FIBA Americas U18 Championship.
Jalen Brunson continued his basketball journey at Villanova University, where he played as a point guard. The skilled player garnered a wealth of recognition during his college career, including the Big East All-Freshman team and the Big East Conference Preseason Freshman of the Year. Furthermore, Brunson helped lead Villanova to two NCAA National Championships, establishing himself as a dominant force in college basketball.
The 2018 NBA Draft marked the beginning of Brunson’s professional basketball career. Selected by the Dallas Mavericks, he immediately proved to be a valuable addition to the team as a point guard. Throughout his time with the Mavericks, Brunson played a significant role in navigating the team through numerous playoffs. His steadfast performance in the NBA led to him being considered a highly valuable guard.
Throughout his basketball career, Brunson has been guided by his father, Rick Brunson, a former NBA player and coach. Rick enjoyed a successful nine-year career as a player for various teams, such as the New York Knicks, Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat, Denver Nuggets, Chicago Bulls, and Cleveland Cavaliers. Post-retirement, Rick transitioned to coaching, taking up assistant coaching positions with teams like the Bulls and Timberwolves.
Off the court, Jalen Brunson’s mother, Sandra Brunson, has played a significant role in his life. A former athlete and now a litigation paralegal, Sandra’s support has remained constant throughout Jalen’s journey, helping him balance his personal and professional lives.
As Jalen Brunson continues his career in the NBA, his dedication to the sport and strong work ethic will continue to propel him forward and contribute to his growing legacy as a talented American basketball player.
Personal Life
Jalen Brunson, a professional basketball player, was born and raised in southern New Jersey, specifically in New Brunswick. His upbringing can be attributed to the love and support from his parents, Rick and Sandra Brunson. Both of his parents have a history in sports; Rick was a former basketball player at Temple University and spent nine seasons in the NBA, while Sandra played volleyball at the same university.
In addition to his parents, Jalen has a sister named Erica Brunson, born in 2001. The Brunson family eventually moved from New Jersey to Lincolnshire, Illinois, where Jalen continued to grow and develop his passion for basketball.
Jalen is currently in a relationship with Ali Marks, who is a driving inspiration for his career. The basketball player frequently shares moments with his girlfriend on his social media platforms, such as Instagram and Twitter. Within his daily work, Ali has been involved in social media and completed an internship in the field. Her LinkedIn page also provides insight into her professional background.
Although not engaged at the moment, the couple remains an essential part of each other’s lives as they continue to support Jalen’s journey in the world of professional basketball.