Jalen Brunson: NBA Star on the Rise
Early Life and Career
Jalen Marquis Brunson was born on August 31, 1996, in New Brunswick, New Jersey. The son of former NBA player Rick Brunson, Jalen began playing basketball at a young age. He attended Stevenson School in Pebble Beach, California, where he led his team to two state championships.
College Career
Brunson played college basketball for Villanova University from 2015 to 2018. During his time at Villanova, he won two national championships and was named the Most Outstanding Player of the 2018 NCAA Tournament. Brunson also earned First Team All-American honors in both 2017 and 2018.
NBA Career
Brunson was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks with the 33rd overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft. In his rookie season, he averaged 9.2 points and 3.2 assists per game. In the 2019-20 season, Brunson improved his numbers to 12.6 points and 3.4 assists per game. He became a key contributor to the Mavericks' success, helping them reach the playoffs in both seasons.
In the 2021-22 season, Brunson had a breakout year. He averaged 16.3 points and 4.8 assists per game, helping the Mavericks reach the Western Conference Finals. Brunson's performance earned him a four-year, $104 million contract with the New York Knicks in the summer of 2022.
Stats and Accomplishments
- 2x NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2019, 2020)
- 2x NCAA National Champion (2016, 2018)
- NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player (2018)
- First Team All-American (2017, 2018)
- Big East Player of the Year (2018)
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