Introduction
Jalen Brunson is a young and talented basketball player who has been making waves in the NBA. He was born on August 31, 1996, in New Brunswick, New Jersey. Brunson is the son of former NBA player Rick Brunson and grew up in Lincolnshire, Illinois. His parents played a significant role in shaping his love for basketball, and he began playing the sport at a young age.
Early Career
Brunson attended Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire, where he made a name for himself as one of the best high school basketball players in the country. He led his team to back-to-back Illinois Class 4A state championships in 2015 and 2016, and was named Illinois Mr. Basketball in 2015 and 2016.
After high school, Brunson committed to play college basketball at Villanova University. He played for Villanova from 2016 to 2018 and was a key player for the team. He won two NCAA championships with Villanova in 2016 and 2018 and was named the NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player in 2018.
NBA Career
Brunson was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the second round of the 2018 NBA draft. He made his NBA debut on October 17, 2018, against the Phoenix Suns. Brunson quickly established himself as a reliable player for the Mavericks and became a valuable member of the team.
In his rookie season, Brunson played in 73 games and started in 38 of them. He averaged 9.3 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. Brunson’s impressive performance earned him a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team.
Playing Style
Brunson is known for his excellent ball-handling skills and his ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. He is a smart and efficient player who has a good understanding of the game. Brunson is also a solid defender and can guard multiple positions.
Despite his size, Brunson is a tough and physical player who can play through contact. He has a high basketball IQ and is always looking for ways to improve his game.
Personal Life
Brunson is a private person and doesn’t share much about his personal life. He is married to his longtime girlfriend Jacqueline Cruz, and the couple has a son together. Brunson is also a devout Christian and is known for his strong faith.
Off the court, Brunson is involved in various charitable activities and is passionate about giving back to his community. He has worked with organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Conclusion
Jalen Brunson is a rising star in the NBA, and his future looks bright. He has already achieved a lot in his young career and has proven himself to be a valuable player for the Dallas Mavericks. With his talent and work ethic, Brunson is sure to have a long and successful career in the NBA.