Jalen Brunson, a star player for the New York Knicks, shares a beautiful life with his wife, Ali Marks Brunson. The couple, who have known each other since their high school days in Illinois, married in 2023 and welcomed their daughter, Jordyn James Brunson, in July 2024.
Ali and Jalen first met at Adlai E. Stevenson High School, where they not only attended classes together but also shared memorable moments like their prom. Jalen fondly shared this on Instagram back in 2015, celebrating Ali as the best date anyone could ask for.
In terms of her professional accomplishments, Ali Marks Brunson has established herself as a dedicated physical therapist. After earning her degree in kinesiology and exercise science from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 2017, she furthered her education at Northwestern University, obtaining her Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2021. Throughout her career, she has worked at various clinics, most notably at ATI Physical Therapy in Harrison, New York.
Their love story took a sentimental turn when Jalen proposed to Ali in their former high school gym during an event for his induction into the school’s athletic hall of fame. The couple exchanged vows in 2024 in a picturesque ceremony at the Ritz-Carlton in Chicago.
Beyond her personal life, Ali has also honored her father’s memory by running a marathon in 2020. Her father, Jim Marks, passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2010. Ali’s participation in the marathon was a tribute to him and supported Project Purple, an organization that raises funds and awareness for pancreatic cancer research. During her run, she reflected on her family’s experience with the illness and expressed hope for a future without pancreatic cancer.
In a heartwarming display of family support, their daughter, Jordyn, has been seen cheering on her father at games, including the 2025 NBA All-Star Game.
The Brunson family’s journey showcases love, resilience, and a commitment to honoring the past while looking forward to a bright future.