
Who Is Jalen Brunson’s Wife? Meet Ali Marks, His High School Sweetheart
Jalen Brunson has been making waves in the NBA with his incredible talent, but off the court, his biggest win is his relationship with his longtime love, Ali Marks. Their love story is straight out of a movie—high school sweethearts who made it through long distances, college, and the NBA grind, all while growing together. Fast forward to today, they’re happily married and recently welcomed their first child. Let’s take a deep dive into the life of Ali Marks, the woman who’s been Brunson’s rock through it all.
High School Sweethearts Turned Life Partners
Brunson and Marks’ love story started at Adlai E. Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire, Illinois. They began dating in October 2013 when they were just teenagers, and by senior year, they were attending prom together. Brunson, a standout basketball player, was on the fast track to a big career, while Marks was focused on academics.
Even after high school, their paths took them to different places—Brunson went off to Villanova University, where he became a college basketball star, while Marks stayed in Illinois to study kinesiology and exercise science at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Despite the distance, their relationship only grew stronger.
From College to Career: Making Long Distance Work
After earning her bachelor’s degree in 2017, Marks took things a step further, pursuing a doctorate in physical therapy at Northwestern University. She graduated in 2021, officially becoming a licensed physical therapist. Meanwhile, Brunson was drafted into the NBA by the Dallas Mavericks in 2018, making long-distance an even bigger challenge. But they made it work—Marks eventually moved to Dallas after finishing her studies and began working at the W.B. Carrell Memorial Clinic as a physical therapist.
Brunson’s career skyrocketed, and so did their relationship. In September 2022, Brunson pulled off a romantic proposal at their high school gym, going down on one knee at center court. The couple had come full circle from where it all began.
A Dream Wedding in Chicago
On July 29, 2023, Jalen and Ali made it official with a lavish wedding at The Ritz-Carlton in Chicago. The celebration was nothing short of spectacular—think lights, lasers, a top-tier DJ, and an unforgettable party. Marks stunned in a custom Eva Lendel gown, and later surprised everyone by changing into her 2015 prom dress, proving their love story had truly come full circle. Brunson kept it classic in a custom black tux and velvet loafers.
Brunson couldn’t stop gushing about his wife, saying, “She’s always been by my side, and I’m lucky to have her.” The feeling was mutual, as Marks called the day “a dream come true.”
Parenthood: Welcoming Baby Jordyn
Just when fans thought things couldn’t get any better, Jalen and Ali surprised everyone with a huge announcement—they became parents! Their first child, Jordyn James Brunson, was born on July 31, 2024. The couple kept the pregnancy private, making the birth announcement even more special.
While Brunson was making headlines with the New York Knicks, Marks was preparing for the biggest role of her life—motherhood. Even though the Knicks didn’t win the 2024 NBA Championship, this was an even bigger victory for the couple.
Who Is Ali Marks? More Than Just the Wife of an NBA Star
Ali Marks isn’t just Jalen Brunson’s wife—she’s an accomplished physical therapist with a passion for helping others. After earning her doctorate from Northwestern University, she built a career specializing in physical therapy, making an impact in the medical field.
She’s also a strong advocate for pancreatic cancer awareness, a cause close to her heart. Marks lost her father to the disease and has since run multiple marathons to raise money for Project Purple, an organization that supports pancreatic cancer research. In 2022, she raised $5,900 while running a marathon in his honor.
A Power Couple in the Public Eye
Despite their busy lives, Jalen and Ali find time to enjoy life together. Whether it’s traveling to Jamaica, Miami, or other vacation spots, or simply spending time at home with their dog Kona, they prioritize their relationship.
Ali even made her commercial debut alongside Jalen in a March Madness AT&T commercial in 2024. The ad featured a fun scene between the couple, showcasing their playful chemistry.
Jalen Brunson’s Net Worth in 2025
Jalen Brunson’s career has been on a steady rise, and so has his net worth, which is estimated to be around $30 million as of 2025. After signing a $104 million, four-year contract with the New York Knicks in June 2022, his financial standing has only improved. With endorsements, sponsorships, and his consistent performance on the court, he’s cementing himself as one of the top guards in the NBA.
What’s Next for Jalen and Ali?
With a beautiful family, thriving careers, and a love that’s only grown stronger over the years, Jalen and Ali’s future looks brighter than ever. Whether it’s chasing another playoff run with the Knicks, continuing her work as a physical therapist, or raising their daughter, they’re tackling everything together, just like they always have.
From high school sweethearts to NBA royalty, their love story is proof that true love can stand the test of time—and long distances. Here’s to many more years of success, happiness, and love for the Brunson family!
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