Mavericks: Learn about Jalen Brunson’s path to the NBA

The Dallas Mavericks are running a three-part series on Jalen Brunson and his path to the NBA. The opening segment looks at his incredible high school career.

The Dallas Mavericks drafted Jalen Brunson in the second round in 2018. He worked his way into the rotation as a rookie. Brunson parlayed that to an invite to Team USA camp in the summer of 2019. The 23-year-old took over as the Mavs backup point guard this season. He continues to improve daily.

Making it to the NBA was an accumulation of a ton of hard work. Brunson always had the talent and bloodlines. His father, Rick Brunson, was a nine-year NBA veteran. That did not guarantee Jalen would make it, though.

The Mavs are doing a three-part special showing Jalen Brunson’s path to the NBA. They released the first piece on April 15. It takes a look at Brunson’s high school career at Stevenson in Illinois. Fans can enjoy it below.

Jalen Brunson came so close twice before finally winning the state title his senior year. He had 30 points in the championship game.

That should come as no surprise to fans. An upcoming part will focus on his career at Villanova where Brunson led the Wildcats to two NCAA Championships in three seasons. He was the starting point guard every year. Brunson transformed into the Wildcats leading scorer and engine before making the jump to the NBA.

The Mavericks guard is currently recovering from shoulder surgery. He is hoping to be ready for the start of training camp next season. Well wishes go out to Brunson in his recovery.

It will be interesting to monitor his role moving forward. Jalen Brunson is stuck behind Luka Doncic in Dallas. He has two years left on his rookie deal. Brunson becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2022. Will the Mavericks be able to keep him as their backup point guard long-term? Or do they attempt to trade him before his rookie contract expires? It is something to watch moving forward.

The Smoking Cuban will be back with more on Jalen Brunson plus analysis on the Dallas Mavericks, so please check back with us on a regular basis.