New York Knicks’ star and NBA Finals MVP, Jalen Brunson, says his upcoming children’s book, Jalen Plays It All, encourages kids to embrace hard work, overcome setbacks, and believe in themselves—on and off the court.
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Why NY Knicks’ Jalen Brunson Wrote Jalen Plays It All and the Message He Wants Kids to Remember
Jalen Brunson announced Tuesday morning that he authored a children’s book, titled Jalen Plays It All, after leading the Knicks to their first NBA title in 53 years.
The 29-year-old shared that the book is his and will be released next year by Feiwel & Friends. The book is illustrated by Neely Daggett.
Brunson has been doubted due to his lack of size for his entire basketball career, and hopes his success shows kids to keep trying for their goals.
“I’ve been thinking a lot about how I can show kids who might not be the tallest or the fastest that they, too, have greatness in them. And that they should always keep trying,” Brunson said via his LinkedIn.
Bruson’s journey has been unique. He is known for his relentless pursuit to get better. That has led him to winning two national championships in college at Villanova, to becoming a perennial NBA All-Star, and now an NBA Finals MVP.
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The newly crowned King of New York hopes his book reminds kids that they can achieve anything through a long process of hard work.
“The children’s book is a story about discovering that success doesn’t happen overnight. There are mistakes, setbacks, and moments when giving up may feel easier than pushing forward,” Brunson wrote on Instagram and LinkedIn with a photo of him holding a copy.
Brunson said his message extends beyond basketball, emphasizing that the lessons he learned through his athletic career can be applied anywhere.
In his statement, he added, “While basketball was always at the center of my journey, every sport I played helped build the habits, character, and work ethic that made me who I am.”
The book is available for pre-order now, and Bruson said he will share more about the book soon.
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