Meet Dr. Ali Marks Brunson: The Woman Behind NBA Star Jalen Brunson

Jalen Brunson has emerged as one of the New York Knicks' most vital players, and his impact will be on full display as the team faces the San Antonio Spurs in game 1 of the NBA Finals. But beyond the court, the 29-year-old has built a life with a partner he's known for over a decade.

The NBA star has been married to Dr. Ali Marks Brunson since 2023, and their relationship has roots that go back to their teenage years.

A High School Romance

Brunson and his wife are high school sweethearts who both attended Adlai Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire, Illinois. According to a throwback post Brunson shared on Instagram, the two became official on October 27, 2013.

While they remained close after graduation, their college paths diverged. Brunson played basketball at Villanova, while Ali pursued her education at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She later earned her doctorate in physical therapy from Northwestern University in 2021.

The Wedding

The couple exchanged vows on July 29, 2023, at the Ritz-Carlton in Chicago. The proposal itself held sentimental value—Brunson popped the question in their high school gymnasium.

Describing the celebration to People magazine, Ali shared her vision for the day: "We wanted it to be a big big party: celebratory and joyful, with lights, lasers, a fun DJ, good food, good drinks."

Brunson expressed his gratitude for his wife's steadfast support, saying, "She's always been by my side and I'm lucky to have her. I'm excited to celebrate this special milestone with all of our closest friends and family, who have been so supportive over the many years of our relationship."

Her Professional Background

Dr. Ali Marks Brunson works as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and Pregnancy and Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist, bringing her expertise in athletic performance and wellness to her practice.

Growing Family

Nearly a year into married life, the couple expanded their family. Just two days shy of their first wedding anniversary, they welcomed their daughter, Jordyn James Brunson, on July 31, 2024.