Jalen Brunson

Jalen Brunson, a noted professional basketball player for the New York Knicks in the NBA, has an array of achievements to his name. These include a 2× NBA All-Star in 2024 and 2025, being named to the All-NBA Second Team in the same years, and winning the Clutch Player of the Year in the 2024–2025 season. Brunson also set the NBA record for most three-point shots made in a half without a miss (8) and tied the record for most three-point shots made in a single game without a miss (9). His leadership was instrumental in leading the New York Knicks to their first Eastern Conference Finals in 25 years in 2025. He has also left a significant mark in his college basketball years, securing two NCAA championships with Villanova in 2016 and 2018, and being named the National College Player of the Year in 2018.

Brunson's success story began in his high school years, where he was named Illinois Gatorade Player of the Year twice. His basketball prowess landed him a spot in the 2015 McDonald's All-American Boys Game, the Nike Hoop Summit, and the Jordan Brand Classic. His winning streak continued as he triumphed in the skills competition at the 2015 POWERADE Jam Fest associated with the McDonald's All-American game. Brunson's high school career ended with him ranked No. 16 in the ESPN 100 and as the #2-point guard behind Isaiah Briscoe. Among numerous accolades, Brunson was also a first-team Parade All-American and a third-team USA Today All-USA high school basketball team selection.

Continuing his career, Brunson won the John R. Wooden Award in 2018 and received the Naismith College Player of the Year award in the same year. His remarkable performance led to him being named the Associated Press College Basketball Player of the Year in 2018. He was recognized as the NABC Player of the Year in 2018 and was awarded the Oscar Robertson Trophy by the USBWA in 2018. His journey in the professional domain is equally impressive. He made history by joining Walt Frazier and Patrick Ewing as the only players in Knicks history to put up at least 30 points and 10 assists in a playoff game.