From second-round pick to first-class role model.
Jalen Brunson spent Tuesday afternoon not at the practice facility or MSG, but in the kitchen at DREAM Charter High School in the Bronx. The Knicks point guard cooked alongside students, shared life lessons, and announced a major donation to support their culinary education.
The visit was part of Brunson’s ongoing work with his nonprofit, the Second Round Foundation. Named in honor of his selection in the second round of the 2018 NBA Draft, the organization focuses on empowering youth who may have been overlooked.
“It kind of reflects the notion of being overlooked,” said the Brunson Burner. “For us, it’s all about empowering the youth—through school, through sports.”
DREAM officials say last season’s Clutch Player of the Year has taken that mission seriously. His foundation pledged more than $300,000 to support the school’s Scratch Food Kitchen program, which not only provides healthy, from-scratch meals to students year-round, but also creates educational opportunities like internships and a culinary club.
“I’m working on getting my food handler’s license,” one student said. “Being part of the club helped me realize this is what I want to do.”
According to DREAM, 89% of their students qualify for free or reduced lunch. That means the meals they receive at school are often their most consistent source of nutrition. Brunson’s support will help ensure that the food is not only nutritious, but also tied to student-led learning and professional growth.
“Not having to worry about food or your next meal is a luxury everyone needs,” Brunson said. “For me, I just do the best I can to help.”
From the court to the kitchen, Brunson continues to show up for New York.