Career Timeline of Jalen Brunson: Major Achievements and Milestones

How Jalen Brunson built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Jalen Brunson, nicknamed "Brunson Burner", is an American professional basketball player currently with the New York Knicks. Drafted 33rd overall in 2018 by the Dallas Mavericks, where he played his first four NBA seasons, Brunson had a successful college career at Villanova. As a junior, he was named national player of the year and won two national championships. He is known for his scoring ability and playmaking skills.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

May 5, 2014: Invited to USA Basketball Tryouts

On May 5, 2014, Jalen Brunson was among 21 athletes invited to try out for the 12-member USA national team for the 2014 FIBA Americas Under-18 Championship.

June 18, 2015: Named to USA Basketball U19 World Cup Team

On June 18, 2015, Jalen Brunson was selected as a member of the 12-man 2015 USA Basketball Men's U19 World Cup Team for the 2015 FIBA Under-19 World Cup.

December 30, 2017: 31 Points vs. Butler

On December 30, 2017, Jalen Brunson scored 31 points in a game against Butler; however, Villanova lost the game, marking their first loss of the season.

June 21, 2018: Drafted by Dallas Mavericks

On June 21, 2018, Jalen Brunson was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks as the 33rd overall pick in the NBA draft. He was the fourth and final Villanova player selected in the 2018 NBA draft.

October 17, 2018: NBA Debut

On October 17, 2018, Jalen Brunson made his NBA debut with the Dallas Mavericks, recording three points, one rebound, and an assist in a loss against the Phoenix Suns.

2018: Drafted by Dallas Mavericks

In 2018, Jalen Brunson was drafted as the 33rd overall pick by the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA draft.

March 12, 2019: Career High 34 Points

On March 12, 2019, Jalen Brunson scored a then career-high of 34 points, along with five rebounds, four assists and a steal in a loss to the San Antonio Spurs.

December 16, 2019: Ended Milwaukee Bucks Win Streak

On December 16, 2019, with Luka Dončić out, Brunson started and helped the Mavericks end an 18-game win streak by the Milwaukee Bucks, posting a career-high 11 assists and his first double-double of the season with 13 points.

April 16, 2022: Playoffs Game 1 vs. Utah Jazz

On April 16, 2022, during Game 1 of the first round of the playoffs against the Utah Jazz, Jalen Brunson recorded 24 points, seven rebounds, and five assists in a 93–99 loss.

June 2, 2022: Father Hired by New York Knicks

On June 2, 2022, Jalen Brunson's father was hired by the New York Knicks as an assistant coach.

July 12, 2022: Signed with New York Knicks

On July 12, 2022, Jalen Brunson signed a four-year, $104 million contract with the New York Knicks.

2022: Signed with New York Knicks

In 2022, Jalen Brunson signed with the New York Knicks as a free agent after playing four years with the Dallas Mavericks.

January 4, 2023: 38 Points vs. San Antonio Spurs

On January 4, 2023, Jalen Brunson scored 38 points, with seven rebounds and six assists, in a 117–114 win over the San Antonio Spurs.

June 4, 2023: Commitment to Team USA

On June 4, 2023, Jalen Brunson was among the first commitments to Team USA for the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

January 1, 2024: Career-High Assists

On January 1, 2024, in OG Anunoby's debut with the Knicks, Jalen Brunson posted a career-high 14 assists against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

August 6, 2024: Named Knicks Captain

On August 6, 2024, Jalen Brunson was named the 36th captain in the history of the New York Knicks franchise, marking a significant leadership role.

2024: All-Star and All-NBA Team Selection

In 2024, Brunson was selected as an NBA All-Star and received an All-NBA Team selection for the first time.

2024: Olympic Games Invitation

In 2024, Team USA finished high enough (top 2 in the Americas) in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup to secure an invitation to the Olympic Games.

January 25, 2025: Named Eastern Conference All-Star Starter

On January 25, 2025, Jalen Brunson was selected as an Eastern Conference starter for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game, recognizing his performance and impact.