How Jalen Brunson built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.
Jalen Brunson is an American professional basketball player currently playing for the New York Knicks in the NBA. Drafted 33rd overall in 2018 by the Dallas Mavericks, he spent his first four NBA seasons there. Brunson's college career at Villanova University was highly decorated. As a junior, he earned the National Player of the Year award. He also secured two national championships during his time playing for Villanova.
May 5, 2014: USA Basketball Tryout Invitation
On May 5, 2014, Jalen Brunson was among the 21 athletes invited to try out for the 12-member USA national team for the 2014 FIBA Americas Under-18 Championship.
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June 18, 2015: Named to USA U19 World Cup Team
On June 18, 2015, Jalen Brunson was named to the 12-man 2015 USA Basketball Men's U19 World Cup Team for the 2015 FIBA Under-19 World Cup.
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December 30, 2017: 31-point game against Butler
On December 30, 2017, Jalen Brunson scored 31 points in a game against Butler, which resulted in Villanova's first loss of the season.
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June 21, 2018: Drafted by Dallas Mavericks
On June 21, 2018, Jalen Brunson was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks with the 33rd overall pick, marking the beginning of his NBA career.
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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 one assist in a loss against the Phoenix Suns.
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2018: Awards and Honors
In 2018, Jalen Brunson received numerous awards and honors, including being named a consensus first-team All-American, USBWA Oscar Robertson Trophy winner, Associated Press College Basketball Player of the Year, Naismith College Player of the Year, and John R. Wooden Award winner.
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2018: Drafted by Dallas Mavericks
In 2018, Jalen Brunson was drafted as the 33rd overall selection by the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA draft.
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March 12, 2019: Career High 34 Points
On March 12, 2019, Jalen Brunson scored a career-high 34 points in a game against the San Antonio Spurs, showcasing his growing offensive capabilities.
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December 16, 2019: Ended Bucks Win Streak
On December 16, 2019, while starting for the Mavericks, Jalen Brunson helped end the Milwaukee Bucks' 18-game win streak, contributing 13 points and a career-high 11 assists.
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2021: Career Highs
During the 2021 NBA season, Jalen Brunson achieved career highs in points, rebounds, and assists, demonstrating his improved performance and contribution to the team.
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April 16, 2022: Playoff Game 1
On April 16, 2022, in Game 1 of the first round of the playoffs, Jalen Brunson recorded 24 points, seven rebounds, and five assists in a loss to the Utah Jazz.
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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, marking a significant move in his NBA career.
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2022: Signed with New York Knicks
In 2022, after playing for the Dallas Mavericks, Brunson signed with the New York Knicks as a free agent.
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January 4, 2023: 38-point game against Spurs
On January 4, 2023, Jalen Brunson scored 38 points, along with seven rebounds and six assists, in a win over the San Antonio Spurs.
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June 4, 2023: Commitment to Team USA
On June 4, 2023, Jalen Brunson committed to playing for Team USA in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
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January 1, 2024: Career-High Assists
On January 1, 2024, Jalen Brunson achieved a career-high of 14 assists in a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, which was also the debut of his new teammate OG Anunoby with the Knicks.
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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.
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2024: NBA All-Star and All-NBA Team Selection
In 2024, Brunson became an NBA All-Star and received an All-NBA Team selection for the first time.
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2024: 2024 Olympic Games Invitation
In 2024, Team USA secured an invitation to the Olympic Games.
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January 25, 2025: Named All-Star Starter
On January 25, 2025, Jalen Brunson was selected as an Eastern Conference starter for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game.
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