NBA Star Jalen Brunson and Ali Marks: A Love Story

Lincolnshire, Illinois — Jalen Brunson, a two-time national champion at Villanova, is now a star player for the New York Knicks. Alongside him is his wife, Ali Marks, who has supported him throughout his basketball journey.

The couple began dating in high school and maintained a long-distance relationship while Brunson played for the Wildcats and Marks attended the University of Illinois. After the Knicks selected Brunson in the 2018 NBA Draft, Marks moved to Texas to be with him as she launched her career as a physical therapist.

In 2022, Brunson signed a four-year, $104 million contract with the Knicks and proposed to Marks shortly after. He aims to lead the Knicks to their first championship victory since 1973.

Brunson often shared moments from their relationship on social media, recalling special memories from their high school days at Adlai E. Stevenson High School. Their engagement was announced through a heartfelt Instagram post, featuring the caption, ‘Forever.’ Brunson proposed at their alma mater’s gym, right after being inducted into the school’s athletics hall of fame.

The couple wed at the Ritz-Carlton in Chicago in July 2023. Brunson expressed his gratitude for Marks, saying, ‘She’s always been by my side and I’m lucky to have her,’ while celebrating their union with close family and friends.

The couple welcomed their first child, a son named Jordyn, on July 31, 2024. They announced his birth through a touching post, sharing a black-and-white photo of Jordyn’s hands. This reveal surprised many fans who were unaware of Marks’ pregnancy.

As Brunson shines in the NBA, their love story continues to inspire fans across the country.