NBA All-Star Jalen Brunson recently opened up exclusively to PEOPLE about his unique pre-game routine, which includes a special musical ritual involving pop sensation Justin Bieber.
The New York Knicks point guard, aged 27, revealed that despite his diverse taste in music, Bieber holds a special place in his pre-game preparations. “My music library is pretty broad, but right before I step onto the court, after our team meeting, I always listen to at least one Bieber song,” Brunson shared with PEOPLE.
Brunson, who was named a 2024 NBA All-Star, expressed his admiration for the two-time Grammy winner, 30, currently expecting his first child with wife Hailey Bieber.
While Hailey announced her pregnancy in May through an Instagram video showing her in a long white dress and veil, flaunting her growing bump, a representative for the model confirmed to PEOPLE that she was over six months pregnant at the time of the announcement.
In contrast, Brunson is gearing up to celebrate his first anniversary with his wife, Ali Brunson, this summer. The couple first met in high school and began dating in October 2013. After proposing in September 2022, they tied the knot in Chicago on July 29, 2023.
Reflecting on his love for New York City and its vibrant fan culture, Brunson shared, “Besides being the best city in the world, New York has amazing fan interactions. People greet me warmly and appreciate everything our team is doing.” He added, “New York has it all — the best food, shopping, and more. But beyond that, I’m grateful for how the city has embraced us.”
Playing in NYC also means encountering famous Knicks fans like Mariska Hargitay and Chris Meloni, stars of the long-running Law & Order franchise. “Mariska is unbelievable,” Brunson reminisced. “Growing up, my dad always had [SVU] on, and it became my favorite show. Meeting her courtside was awesome.”
As Jalen Brunson continues to shine on the court, his connection to music and memorable encounters with celebrities further enrich his journey both on and off the basketball court.
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