5 Untold Secrets About Ali Marks: The Physical Therapist Who Became Jalen Brunson's Wife
The New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson has cemented his status as one of the NBA's elite point guards, but the person who has been his rock since high school is his wife, Dr. Ali Marks Brunson. As of the current date, December 24, 2025, Ali Marks continues to be a prominent figure supporting her husband's career while maintaining her own professional life as a physical therapist, offering a powerful example of a supportive yet independent NBA spouse. Their relationship, which spans over a decade, is a heartwarming narrative of high school sweethearts navigating the pressures of professional sports, culminating in a lavish yet strategically-timed wedding and the recent arrival of their first child.
Ali Marks, a highly educated Doctor of Physical Therapy, brings a grounded and professional presence to the often-turbulent world of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Her journey with Jalen Brunson is more than just a sideline story; it's a foundation built on shared history, mutual respect, and a commitment that began long before the bright lights of Madison Square Garden. This article delves into the most unique and recent details of their life together, from a rushed wedding to the emotional meaning behind their daughter's name, revealing the untold secrets of the power couple.
Dr. Ali Marks Brunson: A Complete Biographical Profile
Ali Marks, now Ali Brunson, is a successful healthcare professional who has maintained a private but deeply supportive role alongside her NBA star husband. Her background is rooted in education and physical therapy, providing a professional counterpoint to Jalen’s demanding athletic career.
- Full Name: Alison "Ali" Marks Brunson (Dr. Alison Marks)
- Date of Birth: Information not publicly disclosed, but she is close in age to Jalen Brunson (born August 31, 1996).
- Hometown: Lincolnshire, Illinois.
- High School: Adlai E. Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire, where she met Jalen Brunson.
- Parents: James Marks (Father) and Kathleen Marks (Mother). She also has two sisters.
- Education:
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (Undergraduate)
- Northwestern University (Doctor of Physical Therapy - DPT)
- Profession: Physical Therapist. She previously worked as a rehabilitation aide and later as a Physical Therapist at the W.B. Carrell Memorial Clinic in Dallas, Texas, during Jalen's time with the Dallas Mavericks. She currently practices in the Westchester area of New York.
- Relationship Status: Married to Jalen Brunson since July 29, 2023.
- Children: One daughter, Jordyn James Brunson, welcomed in July 2024.
The High School Sweethearts: A Decade-Long Romance Timeline
The relationship between Jalen Brunson and Ali Marks is a rare find in the world of professional sports, a genuine high school romance that stood the test of time, collegiate basketball, and the NBA draft. Their foundation was built far away from the spotlight, in the hallways of Adlai E. Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire, Illinois.
From Illinois Classmates to College Partners
The couple officially began dating in October 2013, starting a relationship that has now spanned over a decade. While Jalen went on to become a collegiate star with the Villanova Wildcats, winning two NCAA National Championships, Ali pursued her rigorous academic path in physical therapy. Despite the challenges of maintaining a long-distance relationship during their college years—Jalen at Villanova University and Ali at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and later Northwestern University—their bond remained strong.
Their connection was so deep that when Brunson was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in 2018, Ali moved to Texas. She began her professional career in Dallas, working as a physical therapist, ensuring their lives remained intertwined despite the demands of the NBA schedule.
The Proposal and the Rushed Wedding
After nine years of dating, Brunson proposed to Marks in September 2022 on the court of Adlai E. Stevenson High School, the very place their love story began. The proposal was a full-circle moment, bringing their journey back to where it all started.
Their wedding, initially planned for Labor Day weekend in 2023, had to be moved up to July 29, 2023, a decision Brunson made to honor a major career commitment. The New York Knicks point guard had committed to playing for Team USA in the FIBA World Cup, which conflicted with the original date. Demonstrating incredible support, Ali agreed to accelerate the lavish affair, moving the date up by a month to ensure her husband could represent his country.
Inside the Lavish Chicago Wedding and Exclusive Guest List
The wedding was a high-profile event held at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton in Chicago, the city where Jalen Brunson grew up. The ceremony was officiated by one of Jalen’s closest friends and former Villanova teammate, Ryan Arcidiacono, adding a deeply personal touch to the proceedings.
The guest list was a who's who of the NBA and college basketball world, highlighting Brunson’s strong ties across the league. Notable attendees included:
- Josh Hart (New York Knicks teammate)
- Mikal Bridges (Phoenix Suns/Brooklyn Nets)
- RJ Barrett (New York Knicks/Toronto Raptors)
- Ryan Arcidiacono (Former Villanova teammate and officiant)
- Donte DiVincenzo (Former Villanova teammate)
- Eric Paschall (Former Villanova teammate)
The reception was a spectacular celebration, with guests enjoying a menu that included mini lobster rolls, baby lamb chops, and spring rolls. Signature cocktails, including spicy margaritas and Tito's strawberry lemonade, were served, making the event a truly memorable night.
The Emotional Story Behind Daughter Jordyn James Brunson’s Name
In one of the most recent and personal developments in their life, Jalen and Ali welcomed their first child, a daughter named Jordyn James Brunson, in July 2024. The birth was a joyous occasion, but Ali Marks later shared a powerful, emotional message on her Instagram, revealing the significant meaning behind their daughter's name.
Ali explained that the name "Jordyn" was chosen to honor a "family heartbreak." While the specific nature of the loss was not fully detailed, the message was shared on their daughter’s first birthday, turning a day of pure celebration into a moment of poignant reflection and remembrance. This public sharing turned their personal story into an urgent message about cherishing family and the emotional weight behind their daughter’s identity.
The middle name, James, is likely a tribute to Ali’s father, James Marks, and perhaps a nod to the shared family history. This level of personal sharing gives fans a rare glimpse into the depth of their family values, showcasing Ali’s strength and vulnerability as a mother and wife.
Ali Marks’ Role as a Professional Physical Therapist and NBA Wife
Unlike many spouses of professional athletes, Ali Marks has a high-level, demanding career of her own. Her background as a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) is not only impressive but also highly relevant to her husband's profession. Her medical expertise allows her to provide an unparalleled level of support and understanding regarding the physical toll the NBA season takes on Jalen Brunson.
She has been seen supporting Jalen at major events, including the 2025 NBA All-Star Game, where she gave fans a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the life of an NBA family during the highly anticipated event. Furthermore, Ali is not afraid to stand up for her husband, as evidenced by a strong message she delivered on social media after the New York Knicks were eliminated by the Indiana Pacers in the playoffs. Her public support often focuses on the human element of the game, advocating for her husband while maintaining her own identity.
The Brunson family recently enjoyed a stunning offseason vacation on the Greek island of Mykonos, demonstrating their commitment to finding balance between the high-octane NBA schedule and quality family time. Ali Marks Brunson is a true partner to Jalen, balancing a demanding professional career with the life of an NBA wife and mother, all while being a source of unwavering support and a powerful voice for her family.
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