Jalen Brunson, star point guard for the New York Knicks, continues to demonstrate his commitment to Jalen Brunson community giving by pledging over $300,000 to Dream Charter High School’s culinary education program in the Bronx. On July 22, Brunson visited the school’s Scratch Food Kitchen, where he not only cooked with students but also spoke about the importance of perseverance and education.
Brunson’s Foundation Works to Uplift Underserved Youth
This visit was part of ongoing efforts through Brunson’s Second Round Foundation, an organization created in honor of his selection in the second round of the 2018 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA Draft. According to Russell Richardson of Posting & Toasting, the foundation’s mission is to empower youth who may have been overlooked by planting
“seeds to create equity for young people through education, sport and community.”
Their vision is to enable young people to define success for themselves, regardless of background or circumstance.
At Dream Charter High School, the Scratch Food Kitchen program provides healthy, made-from-scratch meals while offering students practical education in the food industry. A large majority of Dream’s student body—approximately 89%—qualifies for free or reduced lunch, making meal programs critical. Brunson’s donation aims to ensure the students receive nutritious meals that also foster learning and career growth opportunities.
Making a Difference Beyond the Court
During his visit, Brunson emphasized the significance of food security for students. He remarked,
“Not having to worry about food or your next meal is a luxury everyone needs.”
He added,
“For me, I just do the best I can to help.”
His words underscore his dedicated approach to community support and his desire to make a tangible difference.
The Influence Behind Brunson’s Game
While Brunson is recognized as one of the NBA’s leading point guards, he also draws inspiration from past greats. When asked about his favorite NBA player, Brunson named Steve Nash, noting,
“I watched Steve and how he played, because he’s undersized and not the most athletic and not fast and the dude won two MVPs.”
Nash’s career, which spanned 18 seasons and included time with the Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Los Angeles Lakers, serves as a role model for Brunson’s style and drive.
Impact and Future Prospects of Brunson’s Philanthropy
Jalen Brunson’s $300,000 contribution to the Scratch Food Kitchen program strengthens Dream Charter High School’s ability to provide healthy meals and education to underserved youth in the Bronx. This donation reflects Brunson’s broader mission of supporting equitable opportunities for young people through his Second Round Foundation. As the New York Knicks head into the 2025-26 NBA season under new head coach Mike Brown, Brunson’s off-court commitments highlight his leadership and the positive influence players can have in their communities. His efforts suggest that his community involvement will continue to grow alongside his basketball career, inspiring others to give back.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How did Dallas lose Jalen Brunson?
A. Dallas chose not to trade Hardaway. They instead offered Brunson a modest four-year contract worth $55.5 million. Finney-Smith eagerly accepted his similar offer during that period, but Brunson declined because he felt he deserved more.